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Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 *****ECRWSSEDDM*****

P.O. Box 498

Postal Customer

School of dance lessons apply on and off the floor

Stables (2.0) now growing reputation for its craft beers

SPRING 2015

Hungry? Might go to River’s Edge, or even give Thai a try d i x o n

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COVER • STORY

SPRING 2015

TEACHING A LOT MORE

Than Dance

Publisher Sam R Fisher Advertising Director Jennifer Baratta Editor Larry Lough Magazine Editor Kathleen Schultz Page Design Robin Norburg Breanne Hunter Published by

Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-3600 Articles and advertisements are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of Dixon Living Magazine may be reproduced without the written consent of the publisher. Ad content is not the responsibility of Sauk Valley Media. The information in this magazine is believed to be accurate; however, Sauk Valley Media cannot and does not guarantee its accuracy. Sauk Valley Media cannot and will not be held liable for the quality or performance of goods and services provided by advertisers listed in any portion of this magazine.

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Eastman School of Dance is opening doors to brighter futures

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102 S. Galena Avenue - 2nd Floor | Phone: 815.835.3000 d i x o n

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features 5 9 13

Not your parents’ beer bar, baby

Teaching a lot more than dance

But The Stables is a place your parents would enjoy

Eastman School of Dance is opening doors to brighter futures

Safe haven for

His compositions in the family

Providing homeless pets a rosy future for more than 30 years

Dixon band director pays tribute to family with woodwind trio

From their heart to yours

A tale of two brothers

KSB cardiologists have new way to monitor rhythm Issues

The Stephenitches have sold cars side-by-side for 35 years

River’s Edge Inn a best kept secret

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Restaurant has great view of Rock River for dinners

Just what the doctor ordered

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Amboy doctor named top rural physician

Try something new!

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21 25 29

Life is beautiful with artists A decade of celebrating the arts at TNPS

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YMCA widens its play horizons Some new equipment, wheelchair accessible

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Touch of Thai gives guests authentic, homemade cuisine

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Not your parents’ beer bar But The Stables is a place your parents would enjoy

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

I

t’s 8:30 on a Friday night.

A group of three 30-something guys in baseball caps and hooded sweatshirts step out into the unseasonably balmy March night for a smoke. A few girls in their late 20s sidle up to the hammered copper bar, gazing past the 18 gleaming tap handles, scanning the liquor selection. A game of darts carries on in the back of the bar, while four TVs play college hoops.

There’s very little light. There’s no music. But there’s a lot of chatter.

“I want people to be able to talk here,” owner Ryan Marshall says from a barstool. He nearly blends into the crowd, save for his familiar face. “I want people to be able to relax, have a good time, and maybe try something they haven’t tried before.”

Marshall, 30, bought the bar at 87 S. Galena Ave. in summer 2010 and opened it Oct. 22, 2010.

“I thought I would keep it the same old Stables, and I would make changes to it over time, until I found out the shape it was in,” Marshall said.

The building dates back to 1896 and has housed a bar in all of its nearly 120 years, except during Prohibition, when it was the first discount store in Lee County. The bar became known as The Stables in 1939.

Marshall and his family gutted the entire building, saving only a few tables (one is decorated with political buttons) and the barnwood on the walls.

At the back of the bar, a red neon sign spells D-I-X-O-N in boxy, capital letters. The bar is three mirrored panes, the middle one emblazoned with the bar name and its horse head logo, and flanked by two flat-screen TVs. At the front of the bar, a barrel table looks through floor-to-ceiling windows out to Galena Avenue.

“So then I thought I would open Stables 2.0, with the same feel but an updated look, and I would dive into craft beer,” he said.

Marshall acquired a taste for craft beer while he was away at Drake University in Des Moines, where he got a degree in education.

“It was a big thing,” he said. “Even the hole-in-the-wall, corner bars had at least a few craft beers on tap.

“But it wasn’t much of anything here.”

The Stables first offered “a little Leine’s [Leinenkugel’s], a little Sam Adams” alongside its staple Budweiser, Bud Light, and Busch Light.

“We couldn’t do the Founders, the Bells, the Flying Dog right away,” he said. “We had to phase that in over time, ease our base into those beers.

“I’d throw in a little of this, a little of that, until we got to a place where I’d get into more off-the-wall brews.”

Marshall started with 10 tappers and added eight more in October 2013.

The shiny handles are awash with unique names from breweries near and far. A greenish chalkboard across from the bar lists all the beers on tap, Continued on page 7

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living The Stables Bar in Dixon specializes in craft and micro beers.

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Continued from page 5

The Stables has been a long-time DIxon mainstay that in just the last few years received a makeover by new owner Ryan Marshall.

along with their alcohol content. The cooler below the back bar is stocked with bottles of the same ilk.

Although Marshall prefers the beers that require, perhaps, a more refined palate, he refuses to alienate his base. He still offers the old standbys: Bud Light and Busch Light remain top sellers.

The Stables, however, has made a name for itself—and for Dixon—in the beer world.

Chicago-based Goose Island, which annually brews its sought-after Bourbon County Stout, a 14-percent-alcohol-by-volume stout aged in bourbon barrels, distributes the beer (on draft) in limited quantity. Marshall has secured a supply of the elixir every year since 2011; he sold out of it in just 7 days in 2014.

Many other breweries, lesser known to folks around these parts, send (via their distributors) their beers out this way, too. Marshall always is on the lookout for new brews.

“What’s the worst they can say? No?” he says with a laugh.

The Stables attracts patrons of all ages and walks of life. And the bar truly offers something for everyone.

There’s the relaxed atmosphere for drinks among the after-work crowd. There’s the four TVs, the Blood Mary bar on Sundays during the football season, and the specials during Chicago Blackhawks game for the sports fans.

And, of course, there’s the impeccable selection of craft beers on draft and in bottles for the beer aficionados. s

Mosey on down to The Stables...

The Stables, 67 S. Galena Ave, is open from 2 p.m. to 1 a.m.

Monday through Friday and from noon to 1 a.m. Saturday.

During football season, it’s open on Sundays, too.

Call 815-288-9329 or find it on Facebook for updates, specials and events.

The Stables is the place to be for watching sports, especially the Blackhawks.

The Stables in Dixon specializes in craft and microbrews

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124 Liberty Court, Dixon, IL 815.285.2000

Safe

Photos by Michael Krabbenhoeft/Dixon Living Dexter looks out from his cage at Granny Rose Animal Shelter in Dixon.

n e v Ha Granny Rose Animal Shelter: Providing homeless pets a rosy future for more than 30 years

G

BY LONNIE MILLER SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

ranny Rose Animal Shelter has been providing a safe haven for homeless or abandoned animals for 32 years.

Judy Lohse, 64, has been with the no-kill shelter, which began as Tri-County Animal Protection League in 1983, for 22 of those years.

The Franklin Grove native started her tenure feeding the animals and cleaning kennels. Now, she’s the manager of the facility, a position she’s held about 15 years.

The shelter provides food, medical services, socialization, and adoption services for homeless animals, and training courses for their twolegged friends.

Adoption is serious business, one that shouldn’t be entered into lightly.

“We really teach the importance of spaying and neutering pets, as we Continued on page 11

Judy Lohse, the manager of Granny Rose Animal Shelter, stands in the lobby of the shelter. The shelter has been open for 32 years.

Lucky looks out from her cage at Granny Rose Animal Shelter in Dixon.

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The most important thing is that owners understand the long-term commitment required to adopt a pet. It’s a real commitment to that animal.

PEGGY MUSE

“ Photos by Michael Krabbenhoeft/Dixon Living Booda snuggles up while she enjoys time out of her cage at Granny Rose Animal Shelter in Dixon

Continued from page 9

always have, but the most important thing is that owners understand the long-term commitment required to adopt a pet. It’s a real commitment to that animal. We ask for a promise to love them for the pet’s entire life.

They have to step up to that responsibility.”

Peggy Muse, 57, says her Dixon home would not be the same without Joey, who was adopted from Granny Rose.

“I think the adoption process went smoothly, and once you get all the paperwork done, it goes rather quickly,” Muse said.

“One thing that impressed me was their commitment to making sure the animal has a permanent home. In case of unforeseen circumstances, like a health emergency or something, they wanted to make sure I would contact them to see if Joey needed to be returned to them.

“He’s my whole world now; he’s been really good for me, too. I get exercise and enjoy his company. The screening process at the shelter helps make sure you get the best pet for your situation.”

The shelter also has a retail section where it sells pet supplies of all kinds, along with exercise yards, socialization and training spaces, and several areas for animals to be housed.

Some of the potential adoptees live at the shelter, while others are

fostered out _ cared for in private homes until they can be adopted.

Obedience classes are offered about 9 months a year, weather permitting, in the shelter yard.

Lohse’s dream? “Someday, there will be an indoor training facility.

Board Director Mark Knie would love that, too, but it’s an expensive dream. Maybe some day …”

Granny Rose Shelter holds an annual pet show to teach 4-Her’s and others how to raise pets, and to encourage owners in all aspects of their pets’ care.

“We call it our Show & Show Off Day, because it encompasses all types of animals, and all ranges of obedience or agility skills,” Lohse said.

The shelter, which is governed by a volunteer board of directors, has many needs that can be addressed by the community. An endowment fund was established in 2001, for those who want to leave Granny in their wills, and donations of all kinds – money, supplies, time socializing the cats and dogs – always are appreciated.

Volunteers not only play with pets, but also walk the dogs, clean kennels, and do laundry.

The work is never-ending, but the rewards are great. s

To visit Granny Rose...

Granny Rose Animal Shelter is at 613 River Lane in Dixon, just west of city limits off state Route 2. It is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.

Booda looks out of a hole in a cat tree at Granny Rose Animal Shelter. The shelter has been helping local cats and dogs for 32 years.

Isabelle looks out from her cage at Granny Rose Animal Shelter.

Find it on Facebook, go to grannyrose.org or call 815-288-7387 to donate, or to ask about volunteer or adoption opportunities.

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1217 East River Road, Dixon, IL. 61021

815-288-6565

Rely on Sterling Federal Bank for all your lending needs.

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Present this coupon when you obtain a Sterling Federal real estate loan to purchase a home or refinance your home loan from another lender.

Coupon also good on commercial and ag real estate loans. Limit one coupon per customer. Offer valid on applications completed March 1, 2015 through May 31, 2015. May not be combined with any other offer.

Photo Submitted Cardiologists (from left) Iyer, El Bzour and Hanif

KSB cardiologists have new method of monitoring rhythm Issues

BY DWIGHT OLTMANS

T

KSB HOSPITAL MEDIA RELATIONS COORDINATOR SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

he latest innovation in cardiac care has come to KSB Hospital, and its three cardiologists haven’t skipped a beat in employing it to help with early detection of rhythm problems.

Called the Reveal LINQ Insertable Cardiac Monitor, the device is the smallest implantable monitoring device available. It is used to detect heart rhythm conditions such as palpitations, syncope, unexplained dizziness, stroke and arrhythmia.

Just a third the size of a AAA battery, the Reveal LINQ can remain implanted over the heart area of a patient for up to 3 years. Before this, the Holter external monitoring device provided the longest period of monitoring, for only 30 days.

“The LINQ will monitor the heart wirelessly all the time, which will allow us to detect, diagnose and treat rhythm problems,” Dr. Monther El Bzour said.

“Because we can monitor a patient for up to 3 years, this technology will enable us to diagnose more clinical conditions than ever before.”

Developed by St. Louis-area company Medtronic, the Reveal LINQ is implanted into a patient with a minimally invasive procedure.

Under local anesthesia, a small incision is made and the wireless monitor implanted just under the skin over the heart area. The procedure takes 5 minutes and is performed in KSB’s Day Surgery area.

Once it is inserted, the patient is under no restrictions, and in most cases no sutures are needed.

“No sedation is needed and no IV is started,” El Bzour said. “It is very simple and easy to do. I am proud to say that I and my two partners, Dr. Laxman Iyer and Dr. Sohail Hanif, are very comfortable implanting this device.

“We are excited to offer it to more patients in our community who need it.”

El Bzour, Iyer and Hanif have implanted the device into at least 30 patients in the 6 months since it became available.

“This technology is very convenient for patients who don’t like to carry a monitor for a long time, especially with wires all over the place,” Iyer said. “Or it’s good for someone who may be allergic to the electrodes in the other monitor.

“This technology is the perfect option and is here to stay. It will help us detect more rhythm disorders and save more lives.”

The technology behind the device allows the cardiologists to monitor their patients virtually ‘round the clock, and they don’t have to be in their office or in front of a computer to do so – the Real LINQ communicates wirelessly with the patient’s physician via a monitor, even while they are sleeping, allowing them to continue living their lives normally, even when traveling.

“We are able to closely monitor all of our patients who have these devices implanted,” El Bzour said. “I can actually review my patient’s rhythm on my smartphone, which gives me constant contact with my patient and allows me to monitor them closely.”

Hanif agrees that the innovative technology is a win-win for patients and doctors alike.

“This device is so discreet that most patients will not even know it is there,” Hanif said. “They can go about their lives without interruption or discomfort from the device.”

KSB Hospital is the only healthcare facility in the area that is implanting the Reveal LINQ device into cardiac patients. It’s not available at hospitals in Rockford or the Quad Cities and only a handful in the Chicago area offer it.

“We are lucky to have this technology,” El Bzour said. “We are proud to provide this innovation to our patients.” s

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DIXON’S BEST KEPT SECRET

Photos by Alex T. Paschal /Dixon Living

River’s Edge Inn has great view of river

R

BY JERMAINE PIGEE SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

iver’s Edge Inn bills itself as the best kept secret in Dixon.

Located on the banks of the Rock River, the restaurant has been around for 27 years, but many residents don’t know about it, owner Julie Tunk said.

“People will say they did not know this place was here or they haven’t been here in years,” Tunk said. “We are out of the way in a residential area. I’ll tell people to keep going to the end of First Street.”

Richard Tunk, Julie’s husband, bought the restaurant 27 years ago.

Seven years ago, Julie combined her business, Mama’s Chuck Wagon, with his.

River’s Edge is pretty far from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dixon. In fact, it’s in a part of Dixon I never had visited.

The exterior might not look like a restaurant, but the inside is roomy and boasts a nice view of the Rock River.

When you walk in, you see the bar to the right and video gambling machines to the left, which makes River’s Edge looked like a bar at first, but keep walking.

There are no booths, but there are plenty of square tables, each with a blue table mat with little white fish, and plenty of windows so diners can watch the river flowing right outside. Never fear, the building sits Continued on page 17

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Since 1982

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A full bar and a friendly bartender wait for your order.

Continued from page 15

high enough off the ground so that flooding never has been an issue.

There also are boat docks in the back, so in the summertime, boaters can float right up to the restaurant. “People can also call their order in, and we will bring the food out to the dock, so they don’t have to tie their boat off,” Julie said.

The menu is chock full of choices, including catfish, steak, shrimp, chicken and frog legs.

I love catfish, so I could not leave the River’s Edge without trying some. My meal came with two golden brown pieces of fish, coleslaw, and french fries.

Not only was the meal filling and delicious, it was pretty cheap – less than $8.

“All of our food is fresh,” Julie said. “We hand-batter shrimp, and nothing is pre-breaded. We cut the steaks ourselves, and our burgers are fresh.”

The restaurant may be a bit of a secret, but its loyal customers keep the business afloat.

“Our regulars are our lifeblood, and they keep us going,” Julie said. “They will get a great view of the river, and there is plenty of parking.” s

Life on the Edge...

River’s Edge Inn, 2303 W. First St., Dixon Hours: 6a.m. to 8p.m. Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday; 6a.m. to 2 p.m.

Monday; 6a.m. to 9p.m. Friday and Saturday

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Going On A Vacation or Day Trip?

Give Your Dog A Vacation Too! Very Best Care for your very best friend.

Our state of the art boarding facility is the ideal please to take your furry companion. We have many service to offer, such as boarding, grooming, daycare, and yard play.

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Central Bark Park Coming May 1st !

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Doggies

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Just what the doctor ordered

Amboy doctor named top rural physician

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living Dr. Kurt Crowe stands by as medical student Lindsay Meurer examines patient Joyce Child. Crowe was recently honored for being an outstanding rural physician for his work at the Amboy KSB clinic.

T

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

here’s something very charming about it all: A guy who grew up in the north woods of Wisconsin becomes a doctor who serves those who live among the corn and soybean fields of northwestern Illinois.

Dr. Kurt Crowe treats all members of the family, from the cradle to the grave, out of his Amboy office — babies, who need routine immunizations; children with cuts, scrapes, and broken bones; adults, who come in for annual screenings; senior citizens with diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic illnesses.

“The people are very down-to-earth, and they seem as though they appreciate having someone [a doctor] close by … someone who is available when they need them.

“I’m taking care of families. I might be taking care of one person, but everyone who is in the room with them is a patient, too.”

Crowe recently was named the 2014 Rural Physician of Excellence by the Illinois Rural Health Association.

He said at the ceremony he was “humbled and honored” to receive the award. He added that the credit should not go solely to him.

“It’s a team effort,” he said. “Everyone who works for me and with me … they are just as big a part of the team as I am. They all play very important roles, and I couldn’t do what I do without them.”

Crowe, 48, who grew up in rural northeastern Wisconsin, knew firsthand the importance of so-called country doctors, who could serve entire families, from acute illnesses to chronic diseases.

“If you can only have one doctor, then a family doctor is the jack-ofall-trades, who can handle most things,” he said. “I wanted to fill that need in small towns.”

Crowe received his undergraduate degree in biology from Northern Illinois University. He then studied at the University of Illinois College of Medicine in Rockford, which houses the Rural Medical Education program; he completed his family medicine residency there, too.

“I did all of my training in an urban area, with a lot of volume and

variety. By the time I got [into regular practice], I had been able to see and do a lot of procedures.

“It trained me well for working in a small area with a wide variety but not always the volume … although rural areas are so underserved, that one doctor easily can become overwhelmed.”

Crowe practiced in Princeton for 6½ years, then joined Dixon-based KSB Medical Group in 2006; he practices primarily in Amboy, although he sees patients in Ashton, too.

“The workload [is very challenging],” he said. “Because it’s an underserved area … you tend to get pretty busy after a while. It means a lot of time away from home, a lot of trips to the hospital.

“It’s a challenge, but I am doing what I enjoy doing.”

Crowe was among the first graduates of the RMED program in 1997.

He since has served on its Recruitment and Retention Committee for 15 years, and now is a faculty member in the Department of Family and Community Medicine.

Now, every year, Crowe takes a student from the program into his practice for a 16-week apprenticeship.

“I feel like [the program] provided me with lots of opportunities and excellent training to do what I do … and I feel that it is important to continue that tradition for future generations of rural doctors.”

A former teacher, Dr. Michael Glasser, now the associate dean for rural health professions for the RMED program, nominated him for the award.

“Not only is he a dedicated and excellent practitioner, but he takes the time to teach and serve as a role model for future generations of rural physicians,” Glasser said.

The Illinois Rural Health Association was impressed by his pay-it-forward attitude.

“One of the biggest health care challenges across our nation is the shortage of physicians who practice in rural settings,” Executive Director Margaret Vaughn said. “[We] believe it is important to recognize those who have accepted this calling and gone out of their way to make an impact.”

Crowe lives in Dixon with his wife, Ruth, and their six children.s

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Dan Danreiter

TEACHING A LOT MORE

Than Dance Eastman School of Dance is opening doors to brighter futures

BY LONNIE MILLER SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living Students at the Eastman School of Dance perform the choreography that won trophies for Overall Best Score and for Best Choreography at this year's Dance America National

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I

t’s not just dance steps her students are learning. They’re also learning poise, character, confidence.

Paula Eastman opened her school of dance 45 years ago. Her mother encouraged her and now, she encourages her own daughter, Josie Berkeley, as Josie comes into the leadership position.

“It’s fun to watch our students blossom,” the 64-year-old said.

“They grow up with us.”

Josie, 36, stresses other skills gained from involvement in the classes.

“They learn discipline from a young age, socialization, and confidence.

They’re friends for life, attend each other’s weddings, they are all part of the dance family.

Paula agreed. “Graduates of the school return to help with recitals, serving as ushers, helping with younger students in placement and so on.”

At this year Dance America National Competitions in Appleton, Wisconsin, Eastman students brought home trophies for Overall Best Score and for Best Choreography.

Choreography is Josie’s responsibility, and she was understandably proud of that award.

Their students were eager to share their thoughts on why they love dance, and what’s the hardest thing about it. Katie Dewey, 18, of Dixon, has been with Eastman since she was 2½ years old. Her mother, Kelly, also was a graduate of the school.

“The best thing about dance is there’s no feeling like it,” Katie said.

“I do track and basketball, but no feeling is like being on stage. It takes a lot of patience to learn a new trick, because you want it right now, but you have to give yourself time.”

Her poised, polite young dance mates nodded their agreement.

Kasia Majewski, 20, of Oregon,

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Teamwork Poise

Socialization

Confidence Character

Patience

has been at Eastman since she was 3.

“There’s something good about knowing you can always do better, and my teachers have inspired me. Paula and Josie always have good advice, and they give corrective criticism – they match a negative with a positive.”

Cheryl Majewski is Kasia’s mom.

“My daughter was painfully shy when she started. She would hide behind me, and literally get sick at the thought of speaking in front of a group. Now, she’s a different person, she has a different social perspective, the whole world opened up to her.”

Anita Karney and her daughter, Megan, are from Dixon. Megan “was born dancing,” her mom said. “And, it’s absolutely not like you see on TV – Paula and Josie teach and practice character, confidence, and teamwork.

They are phenomenal teachers. All the students respect both Josie and Paula.”

Eastman School of Dance offers classes for ages 3 to 20, including individual ballet, tap, jazz, abstract modern, in which the student is allowed to break from traditional methods, contemporary, which is a mixture of all styles, and lyrical dance, which is basically a ballet that tells the story of the song or music being portrayed.

The academy also sponsors two camps each year for entry-level students: Candy Land Camp, for ages 3 to 10, and Princess Camp, which will be held May 30 for ages 3 to 7.

In addition, the school’s 45th dance recital will be held June 13 at the Dixon High School Theater. The public is invited.s

Recital coming up...

Eastman School of Dance classes are held at Loveland Community Center, 513 W. Second St. in Dixon.

The school’s Facebook page is kept private, for the safety of its students, but you can call Paula at 815-973-5852, or Josie at 815-440-3514, for more info.

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ALL in the FAMILY Dixon band director pays tribute to family with woodwind trio

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

M

ark Bressler has been writing music for almost 30 years, but the local musician finally wrote a piece that made it out of his head and out of his notebook and onto the concert stage last year.

Bressler wrote a piece called “Family Three for Woodwind Trio” over 10 weeks early last year. The piece is a companion piece, that is, it is complementary to another piece for a woodwind trio.

The Clinton Symphony Orchestra performed the two pieces, Walter Piston’s “Three Pieces for Woodwind Trio” followed by Bressler’s “Family Three,” at its annual chamber Nov. 9.

“I never really tried to compose outside of what I’m comfortable with – brass quintet, matching band, jazz band – so I worked on process rather than trying to make it sound like a pop tune,” Bressler said.

“It was much more high-brow. And it turned out really, really well.”

Bressler, 46, of Mount Carroll is the head of music department at Sauk Valley Community College, where he also directs the concert band.

He also is the director of the Dixon Municipal Band.

Bressler plays the tuba, but, like many musicians, also plays other instruments.

“I’m a jack-of-all-trades-master-of-none sort of musician,” he said.

“I dabble in everything. I’m not interested in being put in a little box…

I find that kind of labeling to be a handicap. I feel that we’re all capable of doing so much more than one thing, and I get tired of being labeled as ‘just a musician.’

“So for me, it’s always been what I can do that is a challenge.”

Bressler fell in love with the Piston piece after he heard his wife, as part of a trio, play it for a recital. His wife then urged him to write something complementary to it.

Bressler spent 10 weeks early last year composing “Family Three.”

“I find I work better when I have a subject,” he said. “I wrote what I know. I wrote about my family. I wanted to memorialize these family members, who had a profound influence on me.”

Each of the three movements of the trio corresponds to a family member: his uncle, Walter; his paternal grandmother, Mildred; and his maternal grandmother, Dorothy. The title, “Family Three,” then, is a play on the phrase “family tree.”

“I wrote [into the music] the characteristics of how they lived their lives, how I remember them, how they made me feel,” he said. “I tried to transfer those images or those emotions into sound.

“It’s a challenge.”

Bressler remembers his uncle, Walter, as a meticulous man. He worked for General Electric in Morrison for many years; his life, like his work, was structured. He was slow and deliberate.

“The bassoon was the perfect instrument for that,” Bressler said. “[The movement] begins like a slow stroll, then turns into a melody.”

Bressler recalls his grandmother, Mildred, as a talented, self-taught musician. She played the organ by ear and loved to arrange and rearrange music.

“I tried to take the three instruments and make them sound as much Continued on page 27

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living Mark Bressler directs rehearsal of the SVCC band as it prepares for a concert.

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Continued from page 25

like an organ as possible,” Bressler said.

Bressler remembers his grandmother, Dorothy, as a hardworking woman, who “could do five jobs at once and do them all perfectly.” “[The movement] has this rhythmic interplay that doesn’t quite make sense to the ear,” Bressler said. “And it ends the way she lived her life —fast and furioso.”

Shortly after Bressler completed the piece, three students played it as part of his master’s degree coursework at Western Illinois University; they played “Walter” in February of last year and “Mildred” and “Dorothy” in April of last year.

“I got the recording, and I played it for my wife … and she said, ‘Now we need to do it,’” he said.

Finally, on Nov. 9, the Clinton Symphony Orchestra performed the companion pieces for its annual chamber concert. Crystal Duffee played the flute; Emily Bressler played the clarinet; and Cheryl Neumann played the bassoon on both pieces.

“It was a little odd to go to a concert and not play,” Bressler said.

“I’ve been to so many concerts and played hundreds of composers, but I’ve never been to a concert and been the composer, who is hearing his piece played and has no control over how it is played.

“It was a really unique experience.”

Bressler intends to get the piece published.

Piston’s “Three Pieces for Woodwind Trio,” by the way, was his first published score. s

Dixon band concerts...

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A Tale of Two Brothers

The Stephenitches have sold cars side by side for 35 years

BY LONNIE C. MILLER SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

T

alk about brotherly love. Chuck Stephenitch, 65, started working at Ken Nelson Auto Group way back in February 1970 – 45 years ago.

Ron Stephenitch, 58, was hired exactly 15 years later, in February 1985.

That’s 75 years of combined, yet harmonious, service.

“I can never remember an argument between us,” Ron said.

That might be because, after working together 5 or 6 days a week, the two don’t socialize outside the dealership. Smart.

It’s not just that they love each other. Both men can hardly wait to get to work – they’ve loved their jobs from the moment they started.

“I’ve always loved this place,” Ron said. “As a teenager, my buddies and I would come to town from the farm, just to hang out here at the dealership.

If we had rain at the farm, or a day off, we would all pile in the truck and head to town, to Ken Nelson’s. It was a fun place, where something was always going on.

“I still can’t wait to get here each day.”

Chuck, who has a decade and a half at Nelson’s on his brother, laughs as he recalls a history-making event early in his career: “I actually hired an energetic young man, Rick Curia. Now, he’s my boss!”

Rick, who bought out dealership from his partner, THE Ken Nelson, in August 2010, has been friends with Chuck for years. In fact, Chuck and Rick’s parents, Joe and Mary Lou Curia, were neighbors, and friends.

Hiring their son was a gamble that paid off.

“Rick had never sold anything before, but he really took the bull by the horns,” Chuck said. “He was enthusiastic and aggressive.

“We’ve just always gotten along and had a lot of fun. We still do.”

Chuck, who lives along the Rock River in rural Dixon, is in his office by 7 a.m. and typically on the road by 8 a.m. or so, traveling to Chicago, Rockford and other destinations, either to buy or sell used vehicles.

His job is to keep the pre-owned inventory fresh and exciting to Dixon-area shoppers.

“If a vehicle hasn’t sold in 60 days, it’s moved out of the inventory,” Chuck said. “It’s unbelievable to me that the dealership sold 240 vehicles in the month of March. Of course, Rick would like to see us selling 250 vehicles a month!”

Ron’s specialty is truck sales; it’s how he’s spent most of his career. His first sale was a brand new Nissan Sentra, for $4,999. Today, the pickups he sells are likely to cost upward of $50,000.

“Trucks today are equipped with leather interiors, extended cabs, heated and cooled seats, 4-wheel drive, a sun roof, good sound systems and other high-end amenities. Men aren’t the only buyers either: Now young women come in and ask about trucks instead of convertibles.

“When I started, we sold seven new cars to three new trucks, now we sell seven new trucks to three new cars. I personally haven’t driven a car for over 25 years.”

Another thing that’s changed: Access to information on the Internet has created a more educated buyer.

“They’ll travel 200 miles to check out a vehicle after a search on their computers,” Ron said. “The customer today insists on great service and immediate response time to inquiries. We are tuned into the newer buyers and offer excellent customer service. That’s what keeps them returning as customers – they know they can count on me to look out for them, and to take good care of them.”

It’s a good thing the brothers get on so well: It will be a long time yet before either of them puts Ken Nelson’s in the rear view mirror. They plan to stay at their beloved dealership until the day they no longer can work, Ron said.

“We’ve been here since the beginning, and we’re not planning to go anywhere else.” s Photo by Alex T. Paschal/ Dixon Living Brothers Chuck (left) and Ron Stephenitch at Ken Nelson in DIxon.

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A decade of celebrating the arts

BY LONNIE C. MILLER SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

“I

have the best job in town – I’m surrounded by beautiful art and the beauty of this vintage building!”

Bonnie Kime, 66, of Dixon, is executive director of nonprofit art gallery and fine arts center, The Next Picture Show.

While executive director of Main Street, she attended a local conference; the schedule included a tour of The Next Picture Show, which at the time was being restored to its historic 1854 glory. She fell in love with the building, its history, and the foresight of its owner, local artist Jane Cress Edgar.

When the opportunity came to share Edgar’s vision, she jumped at the chance.

Organized 11 years ago as an educational nonprofit, and funded by memberships and donations, The Next Picture Show’s goal is “to nurture, develop, educate, foster the arts, and galvanize artists and patrons within the community.”

To that end, in addition to showcasing the works of local and regional artists, including students, through ever-changing exhibits, TNPS also offers art classes and workshops of all kinds, studio space for local artists, and a gift shop offering unique and creative items.

In fact, cultivating an nurturing young artists is a big part of its mission.

Among its offerings is The Young Artists Studio, a 10-week program held after school, Tuesday through Thursday that ends with a real gallery opening.

There is also an ongoing watercolor class on Monday evenings for adults, taught by Graydon Cafarella, and local art teacher Stuart Roddy teaches an adult oil painting class Tuesday evenings.

Among its most prestigious annual shows is the Illinois Watercolor Society National Show (www.illinoiswatercolorsociety.org), which is attended by art lovers from all over the United States. It will run from May 1 to 30, with the awards reception May 9, at the gallery.

The Next Picture Show also hosts Sinnissippi Foundation’s annual fundraiser, the Expressions Art Show and Sale, featuring the works of 33 artists. It opened April 7 and ends the 24th with a reception from 5 to 9 p.m.

The foundation helps fund programs for Sinnissippi Centers, which provides mental health and addiction treatment, and this is one of its major fundraisers.

Andy Jackson, 50, of Sterling, is Sinnissippi Centers marketing director.

“It’s really unique that a town the size of Dixon has this to offer.

That’s something very special about the town,” Jackson said.

Kime hopes to bring more traveling exhibits to the downtown gallery, which never charges admission.

As executive director, her duties are extraordinarily hands-on.

She’s as much docent as administrator, and “I learn everything I can Continued on page 35

Photos by Alex T. Paschal / Dixon Living Top: Darci Dunphy, 11, of DIxon scores the bottom edge of a vase she is making in a ceramics class at The Next Picture Show.

The score marks will be used to bond the bottom to the sides.

Middle: Renowned marine life artist Wyland has a piece on display at the gallery.

Bottom: Unique jewelry pieces can be purchased as well.

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Continued from page 33

about each artist, so I can share that information with visitors.

I want everyone to feel welcome,” she said.

TNPS also has become a unique venue for small, intimate concerts, fundraisers, parties, showers, weddings, class reunions ... the community’s use of the space is welcome.

Catering and rental for such events even can be arranged through the gallery.

“We really want to be welcoming to all, from small children to adults from all walks of life. On rainy days we see farmers who enjoy the peace and tranquility,” Kime said. “Children’s faces light up when they walk in the door, they’re curious, just overjoyed by the space!

Kime is passionate about the effect the arts has on her community – and not just at her gallery.

“Art is a huge part of our lives. Look around, everything we see, from a lamp or pottery, even wallpaper and posters, art literally surrounds us, and when we realize that, we begin to look at the world with a different eye,” she said.

“The gallery has been so good for the downtown area. The whole community has jumped on board to welcome and promote fine arts. We have music, dance and theater, the gallery, Dixon Stage Left above Roxie’s, Rosbrook Studio, all kinds of art activity now.

“We have fine dining ... all the downtown merchants have put their heads together to bring talent, variety and great food to our area. We are beginning to see people come from outside the area to experience that cooperative creativity.

“We have the energy of the arts, the energy of the beauty downtown, and the energy of the riverfront coming together, and big-city amenities without leaving Dixon.”

May 1 - 31 - Illinois Watercolor Society National Exhibit - Opening May 9 - Reception & Demo, Lower Gallery Kishwaukee Valley Art League May 16 - Rock Falls AP Class Exhibit at 6pm May 23 - “Art in The Barn” Fundraiser at the Strom Barn June 2 - July 11 - All Mixed Up Opening reception on Friday, June 5 from 6-8pm June 12 - 7th Annual Golf Outing Fundraiser, Timber Creek July 4 - 34th Annual Nuts About Art in John Dixon Park

Come Enjoy With Us ...

Gallery Available for Rent

The Next Picture Show, 113 W. First St. in downtown Dixon, is open from 8a.m. to 4p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and by appointment. Admission is free.

Call 815-285-4924, go to www.thenextpictureshow.com or find it on Facebook for information on exhibits, programs and venue availability.

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A sculpture donated from an anonymous artist is seen in the gallery.

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BY CHRISTI WARREN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

T

hanks to gifts from donors, the Wellness Center at the Dixon Family YMCA is getting quite a face lift.

New flooring goes in this month, as does new exercise equipment, including three unique pieces of strength-training gear that are wheelchair-accessible. They are the first of their kind for the building, and, says CEO Andy McFarlane, the first of their kind for any public health club in the Sauk Valley.

The Y took delivery of the new equipment on April 17. Members are invited to come to a grand opening and “play” on the new equipment, McFarlane said, on April 22.

The purchase of the wheelchair-accessible equipment wasn’t necessarily sparked by any single event, but rather a brainstorming session during which YMCA executives were looking for untapped corners of the community, he said.

“We’re thinking anybody that is paralyzed from the waist down could come in and use the equipment,” McFarlane said. “We could potentially have disabled vets come in. We could also have people in rehab, working closer with our partnership with KSB Hospital.

“This could help uplift the services that we’re able to offer to the Dixon community, and we’re really excited about that piece of it.”

The equipment that’s being replaced was donated to Reagan Middle School.

“It’s a win-win for everybody in the community,” McFarlane said. s

Check out the Y...

The Dixon Fa.m.ily YMCA is at 110 N. Galena Ave., on the banks of the Rock River near the downtown.

It’s open from 5a.m. to 9p.m. Monday through Thursday, from 5a.m. to to 8p.m. Friday, from 6a.m. to 5p.m. Saturday, and from 10a.m. to 5p.m. Sunday.

The Y, which turns no one away for financial reasons, also is in the middle of its annual fundraising ca.m.paign; this year’s goal is $70,000.

Call 815-288-9622, go to dixonymca.org or find it on Facebook for more information, or to donate or volunteer.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living Top: Andrew McFarlane stands in the YMCA Wellness Center before the equipment was moved out.

Middle: The new equipment in the Wellness Center will be accessible to people with disabilities.

Bottom: A rolled-rubber mat floor will be installed in the Wellness Center. The flooring will be easier to clean, won’t get wear marks, and offers sound barrier and some joint protection to its users.

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“We’re your local destination for all your garden needs”

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Touch of Thai gives guests authentic, homemade cuisine

BY JERMAINE PIGEE SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

T Eastman School of Dance

Celebrating 45 years of dance instruction in the Sauk Valley Area

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45TH ANNUAL SPRING DANCE REVUE Saturday, June 13th at Dixon High School Tickets available from dancers and at the door

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he food options at Touch of Thai are a much-needed break from a hamburger or traditional American food.

Located in the heart of downtown Dixon, Touch of Thai offers authentic, homemade Thai cuisine along with a full sushi bar in a soothing, contemporary atmosphere.

The restaurant has been in Dixon for about 8 years.

“We specialize in Thai food and Japanese food,” said Job Yindeeroop, the head sushi chef. “We have most of the same things you will find in a Thai restaurant in Chicago or Rockford.”

The food at Touch of Thai is an excellent blend of fresh and spicy. The restaurant includes meat and sauces in its dishes, but the emphasis is on vegetables, noodles and rice.

The menu includes Thai cuisine such as Pad Thai, which is stir fried thin rice noodles with eggs, scallions and bean sprouts over a crispy omelet sheet.

The menu has plenty of curry dishes, such as pineapple curry, which includes pineapple and sweet peppers; and mild curry, which is served with potatoes, green peas and sweet peppers.

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“It all changes depending on the seasons,” said Yindeeroop, 33. “But, those are solid staples.”

The dimly lit restaurant makes it a perfect place to bring a date. Soft music plays over the speakers.

Large street-side windows show off downtown Dixon, and a small fish tank sits in the front of the building.

In the back of the restaurant is a sushi bar, where Yindeeroop, a native of Thailand, leads the sushi making.

Speaking of sushi, Yindeeroop persuaded me to try the dish for the first time. He suggested I try the giant maki, which includes a plethora of Thai-inspired ingredients, such as a shrimp tempura, cream cheese, spicy mayo, wasabi mayo and unagi sauce, which is designed to give the dish a sweet, savory flavor.

To my surprise, it was very good and full of flavor. Because I enjoyed it, I will think twice before avoiding sushi in the future.

Yindeeroop also let me try other meals, such as spicy basil leaves, which is stir-fried meat with sweet basil leaves, garlic, mushrooms, onions and peppers.

When I walked into Touch of Thai, I was a little nervous about the food choices, since I had never eaten Thai food.

I walked out of the restaurant knowing I’d be back. s

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Women’s Health

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