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

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at Basil Tree Ristorante

Find nothing but the best at Oliver’s Corner Market

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FEATURE • STORY

MR. & MRS. P’s Publisher Sam R Fisher Advertising Director Jennifer Heintzelman Editor Jeff Rogers Magazine Editor Rusty Schrader Page Design Robin Webb 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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MAKING

When the blue light went out for an Amboy woman, she didn’t put up her feet and call it quits

MOORE T

BY SHARENE BRUCKNER SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

he first thing one notices about Dawn Moore is her

OUT OF LIFE

friendly smile. You might not guess by looking at her that the energetic 44-year-old has three grown boys

and has been married to her husband, Matt, for 26 years – or that she’s a rock-climbing, canyon-hiking adventure seeker.

When the Sterling Kmart closed last year, Dawn found herself adrift after a 20-year career at the store. When word got back to the Dixon YMCA that she was available, she was contacted about a job and the Y wasted no time in bringing her on board as a lifeguard and swim instructor. She rose to the challenge, and now teaches kids to swim as well as serving as a lifeguard for adult and senior lap swims, and during physical therapy sessions that KSB conducts in the pool.

When she’s not working, Dawn spends time with her husband finding fun and adventure in the great outdoors. She and Matt took up adventure racing, which involves biking, hiking, and paddling (typically a canoe or kayak). In the early 2000s, they progressed to rock climbing, after taking a class in Indiana to learn the basics.

In 2010, with their boys in high school, Dawn and Matt traveled to Custer State Park in South Dakota for their first rock-climbing expedition. About the same time, their twin sons embarked on an adventure of their own and joined the Air Force.

This past March, when one of their twin sons, Alex, was back from Kuwait, they headed off to New Mexico, where they took a day hike – but they were blindsided when the day took a turn for the worse. Alex, only 21 years old, suffered a heart attack.

Fortunately, he survived, but was sidelined from participating in the big hike in the Grand Canyon his parents had planned for May. Ultimately, out of the six who had planned to go on the trip, only three ended up making it to the canyon: Dawn, Matt, and their friend, Keith Aurand.

Photos Submittted Dawn and Matt Moore and Keith Aurand

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Continued from Page 5

For the 46-mile hike, they had to learn how to travel light, while still carrying essentials such as tents, food, a stove, and sleeping bags. Dawn’s pack weighed more than 30 pounds, while the guys’ packs topped 40 pounds. But for Dawn, that burden on her back also helped her learn a few things.

“It taught me how little we need to survive,” she said – and how to make the most of her space at home, too. “[It] helped me clean out unneeded stuff at home!”

They began their hike at the top of the south rim, at an elevation of 21,000 feet, and hiked to the bottom, where they spent the night. They then traversed the bottom, crossing over the Colorado River on a tiny bridge, before hiking back up the north rim, where only 3 percent of canyon hikers venture.

Along the way, they encountered a rattlesnake (no bites, thank goodness) and endured rain, freezing temperatures, and even snow.

In spite of being exhausted when they finally arrived back at the campground, Matt was so determined to celebrate with a hot pizza that he trudged another 2 miles to the lodge – cold, tired and soaked. While waiting for his pizza, he noticed “how many people’s eyes were glued to their phones, right in the midst of all this incredible beauty right outside the windows!” Both

“

Matt and Dawn were glad there was no need for phones during their hike, with limited cell service available anyway.

So, what’s next for this fitness dynamic duo? They hope

People’s eyes were glued to their phones, right in the midst of all this incredible beauty right outside the windows!

MATT MOORE

“

to paddle the Boundary Waters in Minnesota next summer.

Whether it’s a Grand journey or pushing the boundaries, the couple embraces the adventure in life. For Dawn and her husband, “Just do it” is more than an iconic catchphrase; it’s a way of life. s

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Family

Restaurant owners spice up downtown with their taste of Italy

BY CASSANDRA ZIMMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

W

hile hard work and a personal touch made it possible for the Basil Tree Ristorante to grow, its success is firmly rooted in family.

Customers and staff are like family. The restaurant is like home.

Family businesses supply ingredients. In fact, if it weren’t for family, the owners might never have even discovered Dixon.

After spending time traveling back and forth between Chicago and Sterling to visit relatives, Basil Tree owners and chefs Mili Dalipi and Sal Azemi decided to fulfill a family dream of opening a small, family-oriented Italian restaurant, and they chose to plant their tree in downtown Dixon.

They picked the name Basil Tree to reflect the history of the Roman discovery of the Indian herb basil, which they called Alberto Basilico.

The herb was eventualy brought back to Italy

Tree

a year and a half for Mili and Sal to rebuild the inside of the restaurant to turn their dreams of an old Italian home atmosphere into a reality.

According to Mili, “Everywhere you look in here, there is something

that we did ourselves: the broken tile decorations, the flooring, the walls, we worked on ourselves.”

And, if you know where to look, the building is also home to a peek into the past. The restaurant is one of the few remaining buildings in Dixon to have a coal tunnel, which was used at one time to transport coal to keep the city warm in the winter. Elsewhere, grapes, which were planted on the side of the building, are now used as part of specialty grape martini.

The owners’ dedication to home and family is reflected in their love for their customers, who are part of the family dream that was the basis for Basil Tree Ristorante.

“It is rare that we cannot accommodate a customer’s request” Mili said. “We are fully able to create a meal that those with gluten or allergy sensitivities can enjoy because everything we make is made to order.”

to plant, where it become part of the Italian heritage.

Continued on Page 11

Even though the restaurant is located at 123 E. First St., it wasn’t as easy as 1-2-3 to bring the restaurant to reality 6 ½ years ago. It took

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Mari McCarver sets up a table for the start of the dinner rush.

Photos by Alex T. Paschal / Dixon Living Continued from Page 9

Consistency and quality are two aspects of the dining experience that Mili and Sal make a priority. Each dish is made with fresh ingredients, something that requires travel during the winter months. Mili acknowledges that even though they try to buy locally or from small businesses as much as possible, throughout the winter they can make 2 to 3 trips a week to the fresh markets in Chicago. The same is true for their wine selection. Each of their 13 wines are purchased from small, family-owned wineries.

While the core menu has not changed in 6 years, the chefs change things up by offering daily specials.

Mili says the specials are interesting and unique. “These dishes are either family recipes or something we have created ourselves.”

The regular menu items are just as special. The vodka sauce, for example, which includes mascarpone cheese, vodka, marinara and Alfredo sauce, is Mili’s favorite. Customers can also enjoy dishes like braciola di Maiale, a flank steak stuffed with spinach, Italian sausage, four different cheeses, and cooked in marinara sauce.

The restaurant has also become a local favorite for holiday and company parties. The Al Capone Speakeasy, decorated with warm woods, a taste of 1920s elegance, and a starlight ceiling, can accommodate up to 60 guests. The room is free to use as long as the party has at least 20 guests.

The decision to put down their roots in Dixon was easy, according to Mili. He remembers, “Every time we drove through town, we stopped.

Every time, people were friendly and helpful. It was a great place for us to settle, and eventually several other family members moved down here. We wanted to recreate our family tradition. The best way to ensure that a guest is happy is by feeding them. Our customers and staff are family, and we want them to enjoy themselves, take their time. Quality and freshness take time, but so does conversation.” s

Megan Sweeney pours a glass of red wine at Basil Tree in Dixon.

Buon Appetito...

Basil Tree Ristorante 123 E. First St. To contact or to make reservations, call 815-288-7555 or visit basiltree2008.com or the restaurant’s Facebook page.

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Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Sterling-Rock Falls Living The couple behind the counters at Oliver’s Corner Market are also the owners, Tim and Patty Oliver.

Family has been filling customers’ shopping lists for nearly 30 years

O

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

n the corner of Brinton Avenue and Bradshaw Street, in the heart of Dixon, is a small store with a big heart.

Oliver’s Corner Market has been the quintessential

neighborhood grocery for nearly 30 years.

“We are a traditional grocery store with less variety than a superstore,” said owner Patty Oliver. “We try to offer everything that a person would need on a daily basis, and we try to offer it with convenience, quality, and service.”

The store boasts a meat counter – where owner Tim Oliver does

double-duty as the butcher – that carries only the highest-quality beef, pork, and chicken available.

“We don’t offer anything that’s not the best grade we can find,” Patty Oliver said. “If it’s even a grade below ‘choice,’ we don’t carry it. …

We just won’t stoop any lower.”

The store has a produce department with a salad bar, as well as a bakery and deli that has a sandwich bar and hot dishes.

The store also carries the pantry staples and household basics, just with less variety.

Patty and Tim, married for 30 years, bought the small-town grocery in 1987. They had a partner for the first 7 years, then bought him out. They have been sole owners ever since.

“I had wanted to be in business since my childhood,” Patty said.

“I always felt it was my calling.”

“It’s a necessity, and it’s an integral part of any community.

Continued on Page 15

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It’s challenging – every small business is challenging.

It’s the same thing every day, but it’s always different.”

Oliver’s is part of a cooperative (co-op); Patty and Tim own part of a warehouse in Kenosha, Wisconsin. The membership gives them not only more buying power, but also greater ability to source specialty items, such as gluten-free products.

“There are literally thousands of items available to us that weren’t available before,” Patty said.

Technology has undoubtedly changed the grocery business, as much of the behind-the-scenes work has moved from paper to computer. But product availability also has grown and changed the business, as customers become more health conscious and seek more all-natural, organic, and locally produced food.

Oliver’s just recently expanded its meat offerings to include grass-fed beef. The store will expand its produce department to include more local and organic fruits and vegetables, and with it will expand its salad bar. It also will add to its shelves some 500 items that are all-natural, organic, and gluten-free.

“If we want to stay with the times, we have to do it,” Patty said.

But Oliver’s has remained a community pillar because it offers services that are unmatched by the big-box stores.

“We offer personal service: We’ll carry your groceries to your car, we’ll deliver them to your home,” Patty said. “Plus, we offer the convenience of not having to drive across town to then walk through a huge store.”

The Olivers know most people do not and cannot do all of their grocery shopping at their store. But they know they fill a niche for many of their customers.

“No one does 100 percent of their shopping at one store,” Patty said. “We want to be your first store, obviously, but we know who we are, the niche we fill, and we try to fill that niche to the best of our abilities.

“There are some people we see every day, some people we see once a week, and some people who just stop and get their meat for the month,” she said. “We see just about everything. We see the neighborhood, but we also draw from the greater area.”

Aside from its meat, Oliver’s might be best known for its community service. The store is a regular donor to local fundraisers. And every weekend, from April through July, the store has a cookout in the parking lot to benefit local sports teams, nonprofit groups, and other organizations.

Continued on Page 17

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Published Sauk Valley

Continued from Page 15

CONVENIENCE

“

We don’t offer anything that’s not the best grade we can find.

PATTY OLIVER

QUALITY

“

“It started out probably when we first went into business,” Patty recalled. “A good customer of ours, her daughter got sick, and we had a parking lot cookout and raised $2,000 for them.

The idea just came to us that, if we could do it for this family, then we could do it for another family or for an organization.

The idea just grew from there.”

Groups sell hot dogs and pork chops, and Oliver’s supplies the meat and buns at cost, and donates the ice, condiments, and paper products.

“The money they make is theirs,” Patty said.

Oliver’s Corner Market truly is a family-owned and -operated business. Tim and Patty almost always are at the store: Tim is the butcher, while Patty is the produce manager and bookkeeper.

Their nephew is the assistant manager and his wife is the bakery and deli manager. Their brothers and sisters have worked at the store, as well as all six of their children, many of their nieces and nephews, and even some of their grandchildren. s

From left: Long-time employees Asami Burke, Joyce Odenthal and Rachel Van Horn dish up goods at the deli.

SERVICE Shop Local...

Oliver’s Corner Market 748 N. Brinton Ave., Dixon 815-288-7480 facebook.com/OliversCornerMarket 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily; closed Christmas Day

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Goodbye, First Street Pub;

Hello, Patio’s

Photos by Alex T. Paschal Dixon Living The new Patio's is decked in kelly green and flys the Irish flag.

S

ome people see a patio. Ed Miller sees opportunity.

That’s why the local entrepreneur owner is excited about his latest business venture: an Irish reboot of a downtown Dixon bar.

First Street Pub has become PatiO’s, after Miller and his investment group, Evergreen Marketing Inc., bought the pub at the corner of First Street and Peoria Avenue. It’s the second pub the group has put some green into.

Evergreen also owns Shamrock Pub, 1401 Chicago Ave. Along with being a nod to the bar’s Irish atmosphere, the name change reflects what the new owners think is the pub’s biggest asset: its great outdoors.

The spacious patio, along Peoria Avenue, has plenty of room to entertain for outdoor events, such as concerts, something Miller and his business partner, Elaine Bruns, plan to deliver next spring.

Continued on Page 21

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Sauk Valley

bridal

fair

Sunday, February 7, 2016 11am - 3pm Ticket $5.00 At The Door Sauk Valley College, Rte. 2, Dixon, IL For more information go to marketing@saukvalley.com

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Continued from Page 19

The new owners installed a seven-handle draft box at the bar.

“The patio will be a completely different place,” Miller said. “We’re basically looking to take complete advantage of what we feel is the best patio here in town. We’ll have new seating, a big screen, a number of different venues. It’ll be something to really take advantage of outside.”

In the meantime, the owners will be making a few changes at the bar. Inside, they’ve done some remodeling in preperation for the bar’s grand opening which was Oct. 9-11. Befitting its name, the pub wears a bit o’ the green, and Irish-themed decor has been added throughout, the kind customers have come to know and love at the Shamrock.

Eventually, the owners hope to offer food as well.

Miller said he and Bruns are glad groups like Dixon Main Street have created an environment that helps small business thrive, and they look forward to capitalizing on the culture downtown.

The riverfront’s a great asset to the area, he said, and “the culture that’s building down here – live music venues, the arts – brings people to Dixon. ... There’s a lot going on in downtown Dixon, and our corporation wanted to be a part of it.

“A lot of downtowns you can shoot a cannon through them and not hit anybody.

Dixon’s not one of those. And we’re excited to be a part of it.” s

A new coat of paint brightens up the bar.

PatiO’s Address: 221 W. First St. Hours: 2 p.m.-1 a.m. Monday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Sunday Shamrock Pub: shamrockpubdixon.com/ Cold_Beer_Dixon_IL.html

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Curiouser & Curiouser Mr. & Mrs. P’s is a wonderland of eclectic antiques

BY KAYLA HEIMERMAN | SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING Photos by Alex T. Paschal | A 1972 Volkswagen Karmann draws visitors to the store.

M

ykola and Maureen Pawchuk are buried in treasure.

In their shop, Mr. & Mrs. P’s, in an old, narrow two-story house at 710 S. Galena Ave., they are surrounded by antique armoires that display beautiful China teacups and saucers, Depression glass bowls and plates, and porcelain dishes. The walls are covered in artwork of varying styles and eras. Each room is filled with unique and wonderful items.

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“We have a lot of good-quality used items,” Myk said. “We have antique furniture. We have collectibles. We have a lot of artwork.”

“But then we have all these other things,” Maureen added. “That’s why we say, ‘antiques, collectibles, and other curious things.’”

The Pawchuks have been married more than 35 years and have been in business more than 30 years, first in Elmhurst, then between two shops in Oak Park and Chicago, and since 2008, in Dixon. Treasure-hunting

Top: Maureen and Mykola Pawchuk of Mr. and Mr’s P’s. Lower Left: Items for all interests can be found at the Dixon store.

Middle: Collectible glass and bottles. Right: This antique phonograph is very well preserved.

was something they could do together.

Myk, a self-proclaimed “picker,” handles much of the buying and selling, as well as the pickup and delivery of items. Maureen works with the customers. Both are excellent hosts.

The turn-of-the-century house, with original hardwood floors and arched doorways, is packed: Each of the six rooms displays items around a theme; a child’s bedroom houses vintage toys and games, a rocking

horse, and a high chair, while the kitchen, with its porcelain farmhouse sink, showcases vintage cookware, utensils, and a shelf full of novelty salt and pepper shakers.

The merchandise always is changing as trends always are changing.

The Pawchuks keep tabs on the industry and pick up items at auctions and flea markets.

Continued on Page 25

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Complete Automotive Service Shop Serving the Sauk Valley Area for Over 36 Years!

516 IL. Rt. 2, Dixon, IL • 815-288-4913 • Shop is Open Mon-Fri 8am-5pm • Dennis Weigle Owner

124 Liberty Court, Dixon, IL 815.285.2000

STRONGER. EVERY DAY. New Location December 1, 2015!!!

The CFRR Staff is pleased to announce our new location in downtown Dixon, on Ottawa Street just behind Basil Tree Restaurant

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MMA & Mobility Classes coming soon!

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Conditioning Bootcamp and Beginner CrossFit - Mon/Fri 6:30pm Beginner & Progressive Barbell - Tues/Thurs 6:30pm &9:30 (Rotating 8 & 12 week Cycles) CrossFit - Mon/Wed/Fri 5:30am, Tues/Thurs 9:30am Mon/Tues/Wed/Thurs/Fri 4:00pm & 5:15pm, Sat 8:00am & 9:30am ***Sitters available for CrossFit on Mon/Tue/Wed/Thurs 5:00pm, FREE, for CFRR Members***

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admin@cfrockriver.com • CFROCKRIVER.com Ph/Txt 540.226.3498 • Follow us on Facebook & Instagram!

All current classes and future class additions based on popularity. Feedback Welcome

Mr. & Mrs. P’s Address: 710 S. Galena Ave., Dixon Phone: 815-288-1178 Online: MrandMrsPs@yahoo.com Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday or by appointment

Top: Unique photographic items. Lower Left: Light cascades through the old house that is now Mr. and Mrs P’s.

Middle: Men’s shaving and smoking items are a hot seller right now. Right: Sports memorabilia is always popular.

Continued from Page 23

They don’t sell primitives or much in the way of rustic or shabby chic decor, although they do keep a few country-style items on hand, such as old crocks and old wooden crates, because they always sell well.

“If you are looking for unusual, but good-quality items, then we have ’em, Myk said.

“This is a great place to find that unique gift,” Maureen added.

Mr. & Mrs. P’s is on the corner of Galena Avenue and Seventh Street,

at the stoplight. The Pawchuks consider it the “best location in town.”

They estimate that 80 percent of their customers are out-of-town visitors, while the other 20 percent are locals. They attribute that to their location not far from the Interstate, but not quite downtown.

Many people pop into the shop to ask for recommendations for places to eat, places to have a cup of coffee, or things to check out.

“It’s like we’re the unofficial tourism office,” Myk said.

“And they always stay and look around, and they take this trip down memory lane,” Maureen added. s

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Avonlea Cottage of Dixon For a tour contact Executive Director Alma Wood 503 Countryside Lane, Dixon, IL Phone 815-288-6044 Cell 815-499-1682 www.avonleacottage.com

Compassionate Memory Care Our Dedicated Memory Care Community Features:

• Beautiful Memory Care Community within a neighborhood-like setting.

• Local Medical Director services available onsite.

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• Covered porch, private courtyard and common sitting areas for peaceful retreats and family gatherings.

• 24-hour secure and protective care by an attentive staff of licensed and certified nursing personnel.

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Kirsten Crawford Managing Broker 815-973-0841

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Food & fa mily:

It's all authentic uo bring a taste of Mexico d r e t h g u to Dix er-da h t on o B S K M S D L Y

HELBY

PECIAL TO

N

UEPKER

IXON

IVING

ot only do the owners of Salamandra’s

too. Both women were born in Mexico City,

Kora said. “But now, everyone is very welcoming.

Restaurant serve up authentic

and everything at Salamandra’s is fresh

We really appreciate all of our customers.”

Mexican food, they do it with

and homemade. Juana refuses to serve

a generous helping of family-friendly customer service.

pre-made food to her customers.

The restaurant’s menu consists primarily of Mexican food, the specialities being “the

“My mom always says she makes the food

enchiladas and the 30 different kinds of salsa,”

here as good as she would for her own family,”

Kora said. Every day a new special, every day

which should come as no surprise. Family

Kora said. “None of her food tastes like it’s

a new salsa.

is everywhere at Salamandra’s. The owners

from a restaurant. It tastes homemade.”

That service comes naturally at the restaurant,

and operators are the mother-daughter duo

Not only do customers rave about

Juana and her family moved around a bit

the restaurant’s green salsa, it’s Kora’s personal

of Juana Ayala, 56, and Kora Barami, 29,

before finally landing in Dixon and opening

favorite too (“It’s addictive,” she said). Juana’s

and Kora’s sisters, niece, nephew,

Salamandra’s in 2002. Kora officially became

homemade soups are also popular. Salamandra’s

and brother-in-law work there as well.

a partner 5 years ago. “When we first came

has lunch buffets every Wednesday, offering

here, people were not so sure about our business,”

a variety of delicious meats and soup.

Authentic Mexican food comes naturally

Continued on Page 29

Photos by Alex T. Paschal / Dixon Living Mother-and-daughter duo Juana Ayala, 56, and Kora Barami, 29, keep things fresh and delicious at Salamandra’s.

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NOW OPEN

in Dixon

THE ALL-NEW

PIONEER 500

STARTING AT BASE MSRP.

$8,499*

CHECK IT OUT

Northern Illinois Shop Hop November 6th - November 14th

Register to win prizes at over 16 quilt shops!

Featuring

Quilt Supplies For U 620 E. Rt. 30, Rock Falls, IL

815-622-9413 Mon-Fri 10am-5pm • Sat 10am-3pm Closed Sundays & Holidays

Open since 2003, Hughes Resources has provided staffing solutions to companies and job opportunities for individuals in Northwest Illinois.

We offer JOB PLACEMENT within the administrative, industrial and professional sectors, to include temp-to-hire, temporary and direct hire placements.

Apply online at www.hughesresources.com

Like Us on Facebook to see new job openings!

102 S. Galena Avenue, Dixon - 2nd Floor

Phone: 815.835.3000

CGH Dixon Medical Center Welcomes

JJuan Ibarra, Ib MD MD, FIPP

Board Certified in Pain Management & Anesthesiology We are pleased to announce that Dr. Juan Ibarra, MD, FIPP (Fellow of Interventional Pain Practice) is now seeing patients at the CGH Dixon Medical Center all day on Wednesdays. Dr. Ibarra started seeing patients at CGH Medical Center in Sterling in 2002. He specializes in procedures to treat chronic neck and back pain.

Find out if you can save money with our Multi-Policy Discounts!

Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation and rate quote in person or over the phone.

Dr. Ibarra received his MD and his BS from Texas Tech University in Lubbock, Texas. He completed his residency at Barnes Hospital, Washington University, in St. Louis. Dr. Ibarra is board certified in pain management and anesthesiology and is a member of the American Academy of Pain Management and the American Society of Interventional Pain Practice.

3200 E. Lynn Blvd., Sterling 1321 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, IL

(815) 284-1600

www.cghmc.com

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815-625-3661

www.schunemanagency.com

Continued from Page 27

Kora praises her mother’s cooking skills, and says that the happy customers – many of them regulars – are proof that Juana has found the perfect ingredients for success.

Those ingredients have helped Salamandra’s grow. In April 2014, the restaurant added The Gathering Place, a new party/banquet room that can accomodate nearly 100 people.

Whether it’s one person or 100, Juana and Kora invite customers to pull up a chair at their family tables.

“We like to make people feel at home without having to do the work of cooking,” Kora said. “Our family is very friendly, and we want to make you feel like you’re a part of it. We want to make everyone as happy as possible.” s

Try It For Yourself...

Salamandra’s 105 W. First St., Dixon, IL 61021 815-285-0874 Search for “1Salamandradixon” on Facebook Hours: 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday

and Tuesday; 11 a.m.- 8 p.m.

Wednesday through Saturday The Gathering Place For information about renting the space or getting a party catered

by Salamandra’s, call 815-285-0874.

PALMAS S A L TIC M

EXICA HEN T N U A RESTAURANT

Escape the Office and Join Us For Lunch!

We offer different daily specials Monday - Thursday

Short Lunch Break?

We guarantee your meal will be ready in 15 minutes or else it’s free!*

We Offer Free Estimates, Free Pick-up and delivery, Paintless Dent Repair, 24 Hour Towing Service and More!

Dixon Autobody Clinic Call Us For High Quality Autobody Repairs And Prompt 24 Hour Towing Service 1104 E. River Road, Dixon

* Qualfying specials are listed on ‘Daily Specials’ board at entrance.

15 minute guarantee only available on daily specials. 15 minutes start once food is ordered. Free meal does not include drink or extra sides.

Guarantee available for the year 2015. See your server for details.

24-Hour Towing

200 Keul Drive, Dixon, IL | 815.284.0881 | Near Wal-Mart

815-288-5111

815-288-2722

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Celebrating 70 Years of Quality Garage Doors

Let Your Imagination

Go Wild!

• Cabinetry For All Budgets • Stock To Full Custom Cabinetry • Personalized Design

• Computer Renderings • All Styles Of Countertops • Over 60 Years Of Combined Experience

CREATIVE KITCHEN & BATH, INC.

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“ We ’l l ge t yo u r k i t c h e n c o o k i n ’ ! ” Steve & Pam Workman, Owners

Mon-Thur 9:30-5:00; Fri 9:30-4:00 Other Hours By Appt.

2510 N. Locust, Sterling, IL

Dinner Is Served • Chicken Wings • Fried Chicken • Homemade Desserts • Homemade Soups In Season • All You Can Eat Walleye

Free Order Of Onion Rings With The Purchase Of 2 Dinners.

Dine In Only.

208 W. 10th Street, Rock Falls • Wed - Sun 4:00pm - 8:30pm 100% Health Department Score

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815-626-5499

Golf carts were the driving force behind storage building business

PUTTING THE CART BEFORE THE SHED

BY JIM FAIVRE | SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

W

hen you go to The Barn Yard in Dixon, don’t expect to find pigs or cows or chickens. What you’ll find instead are sheds.

Big ones, small ones. Some that look like houses, some that look like garages, and some that look like – true to the business’s name – barns.

The Barn Yard is just one of several businesses that have grown out of Razor Replay Inc., a company owned by the husband-and-wife team of Robert and Heather McLean. In addition to the The Barn Yard, Razor Replay also includes Razor Wireless, Satellite Pro, and Razor Carts.

It’s the last business on that list that helped give birth to The Barn Yard. But how did a golf cart dealership open the door to sheds? Well, if you have a cart, you need a place to park it, right?

General Manager Holly Larson said that the Barn Yard was Robert’s brainstorm. “A lot of people did not have places to store golf carts, so Robert looked into it and came up with the idea.”

Photos by Alex T. Paschal Dixon Living Contemporary or classic designs of sheds available at The Barn Yard.

Continued on Page 33

Terry Papoccia Construction 815-622-6742

WE DO... Roofing • Siding • New Construction • Wood and Laminate Flooring • Windows Fascia and Soffit • Gutters • Fire & Water Restoration • Drywall Painting • Trim Work • Insulating • Electrical • Plumbing • Snow Plowing Salting • Shoveling

www.terrypapocciaconstruction.com FREE ESTIMATES • LICENSE • BONDED • INSURED d i x o n

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Fall is Here

See us for all your plumbing & heating needs.

Residential • Commercial • Farm • Industrial

The helpful place.

We offer services including, but not limited to…

Amy Howard at Home® One Step Paint™

Sewer Rodding • Sewer Televising & Steaming Franklin Livestock Waterers • Site Plumbing Backflow Prevention & Maintenance Garbage Disposals • Bathroom Remodels Drainfields & Septics • Backhoe • Boilers KOHLER Products • Water Heaters • Furnaces Goulds Jet Pumps • Submersible Water Pumps Sump Pumps • Sewage Pumps Sewer Line Repairs • Water Service Repairs Underground Boring • Air Conditioning

No top coat needed!

We can color match!

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Rescue outdated furniture without the prep!

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815-288-7841 • 815-288-RENT • 900 N. Galena Ave., Dixon, IL Mon-Fri 7-7 • Sat & Sun 8-5 • www.acehardwaredixon.com

YOUR DREAMS EVOLVE. YOUR COVERAGE SHOULD TOO. Contact me to find out how I can help protect your dreams.

Bob Maltry Agency 709 N Brinton B i t AAve Dixon, IL 61021 (815) 288-4206 bmaltry@amfam.com

IL Licensed 058-061599

502 IL Rt. 2, Dixon • 815-284-2044

Family Owned & Operated Since 1967

A WHOLE NEW LOOK

From the ground up!

Nothing enhances the look of your home quite like the elegant beauty of new furniture and flooring.

Window Treatments Flooring Accessories Lighting Furniture Upholstery

SWEETWOOD INTERIORS 107 Main St., Forreston, IL American Family Mutual Insurance Company, American Family Insurance Company 6000 American Parkway, Madison, WI 53783 ©2015 010611 – 6/15

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815.938.3681 Toll Free: 877.938.3681 Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-2pm or by appointment

www.sweetwoodinteriors.com

Many designs have a loft for extra storage space.

Continued from Page 31

So, 4 years ago, The Barn Yard opened at Razor Carts, 610 River Lane. Today, it offers a wide range of buildings sizes and styles, from as small as a dog house to as big as a lakeside cabin – and sizes in between. Chicken coop? Check. Garden shed? Got it.

Have your sights set on a cabin for hunting or fishing? You can bag one at The Barn Yard. Kids need a little home to call their own? The Barn Yard has play houses. In all, there are 15 styles of sheds to choose from, and sizes as big as 14-foot-by-40-foot on down are available.

The sheds are constructed at Miller Storage Buildings in Arthur, which Larson said is an Amish community, and they can be built just about any way the customer wants, inside and out: customized doors and windows; vinyl, panel or log siding; metal or shingle roof. Inside, custom cabinets, cupboards or shelving can be added.

There are many options to choose from to fit your yard space.

Continued on Page 35

Don’t forget we have gaming machines!

(815) 288-9335 | 80 S. Hennepin Ave | Dixon, Illinois

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On the last Monday of every month, new guests can receive 50% off haircut and color services from 2:30 8:30 pm with featured stylists

ALWAYS AT YOUR DISPOSAL

Serving Lee,Whiteside, Carroll, Bureau and Ogle Counties

MONDAY MONDAY CHICCHIC C Studio 404 salon

112 E. Fellows St. Dixon, IL

815.284.4247

www.studio404salon.com

• Weekly Residential Service • 2-8 yard Commercial Containers • 10-40 yard Roll-off Containers • Compactors • Radio Dispatched Trucks • Experienced Local Drivers • Licensed Special Waste & Asbestos Hauler 1214 S. Bataan Rd., Dixon, IL 815-625-1000 or 815-284-2432

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Heat-Co Mechanical, Inc.

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"We count on Heat-Co, so can you!"- The Grandkids 1705 Westwood Drive, Sterling • 815-625-0111 Heating / Cooling / Plumbing Sales - Service - Installation

Rebates and Financing Available

Whatever it takes 34

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Retirement living at its best!

® Heating & Cooling System

1 5

Bonnie O’Connell BSN, Administrator 620 N. Ottawa Ave, Dixon IL www.heritagesquaredixon.com 815-288-2251

There are many different styles to choose from.

The builders will custom make interior aspects as well.

Continued from Page 33

As for color, Larson said, “They can pick out any color,” even matching the color of the shed to their house.

That can come in handy, especially in subdivisions like White Oaks, where residents are required to match their shed to their house.

Prices range from approximately $1,500 for a standard storage shed to as high as $10,000. A 15 percent (non-refundable) down payment is required at the time the order is placed.

While basic storage sheds are The Barn Yard’s top seller, pool sheds and play houses are popular as well – Victorian-style, in particular.

Larson said the sheds are quality built.

“Build-it-yourself-kits are cheaper, but Miller storage buildings are much higher quality.” And, she added, you can’t custom order do-it-yourself sheds.

And why do it yourself when you can have someone do it for you?

Continued on Page 37

The craftmanship doesn’t overlook any details.

SHIPPERTS MOVING & STORAGE

DO YOU HAVE CRACKLING, BOWING, OR BUCKLING BASEMENT WALLS?

Agent For Allied Van Lines

Rest easy. Everything we move is handled with the utmost care and precision. Local and long distance moves.

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WIN O NER CUSTOF ALLIED’S M FOR L ER SERVIC IFE AW E ARD

No Beams • No Mess • No Maintenance X10 Stronger Than Steel: This as a Dime FREE FOUNDATION INSPECTION The Smart Solution For Your Cracked or Bowling Foundation

815-626-5165

2 Avenue G Island, Sterling www.praterpaintandwaterproofing.com

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T IP S

Hospice of the Rock River Valley

Festival of Trees November 17-22, 2015

Northland Mall, Sterling, IL

Design & Dessert Show | November 11 @ 7pm Bethel Reformed Church, Sterling Gala Evening | November 14 The Brandywine, Dixon Festival Store Opens | November 15 @ Noon Northland Mall, Sterling Festival of Trees | November 17-22 Northland Mall, Sterling For more information, call 815-288-3673 or visit www.hospicerockriver.org.

The Night Is Yours

Sponsored By

Come for the drink specials Stay for the fun!

79 S. Hennepin Avenue, Dixon • 815.288.1119

Enjoy a small town Christmas g in Oregon, Illinois

29t h Annual Candlelight Walk

Preston-Schilling Funeral Home, Ltd. Serving Dixon & The Sauk Valley Area Since 1904

Saturday, d November b 28th 4 - 8PM

Santa • Mrs. Claus • Live Reindeer • Shopping • Food Horse Drawn Rides • Tree Lighting Entertainment • Holiday Gift Fair • Candy Cane Lane Hysterical Holiday Hunt Children’s Winter Carnival $250 Candlelight Cash Grand Prize

Oregon’s

Candlelight Walk

Thanksgiving Weekend

36

For more information Call 815-732-2100 or visit www.oregonil.com Presenting Sponsor

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Richard W. Schilling Funeral Director, Owner

Jesse P. Partington Funeral Director/Manager

(815) 288-4469

213 Crawford Ave., Dixon, IL

www.prestonschillingfuneralhome.com

Continued from Page 35

Yard’s sheds are delivered and set up by Miller employees. Another plus: “Free delivery within a 20-mile radius of [Razor Carts],” Larson said. There is a delivery charge of $3.50 per mile beyond that radius. Once the order is placed, it takes about 3 to 6 weeks for delivery.

So, when you buy that golf cart at Razor Carts, you might as well order a place to park it. And while you’re at it, go ahead and buy the dog a new home, get the kids a play house and order that hunting cabin – all in one visit to The Barn Yard. s

THE BARN YARD Located at Razor Carts

Address: 610 River Lane, Dixon Phone: 815-285-3481 Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sunday Online: razorcarts.com or Like us on Facebook

Razor Carts General Manager Holly Larson can help you pick out just the right shed for your property.

n DixoFurniture Mart Just A Fun Place To Shop

815-288-2488

Quality New Furniture For Every Room In Your Home Most Made in the U.S.A New & Used, Antiques, Vintage, Retro, Books, Jewelry, Lovely Pictures, Mirrors, Household Items, Glassware, Home Decor & much more!

60-Day Layaway & Gift Certificates | Give A Gift You Know They Will Use!

INSTALLATIONS • SALES • SERVICE We sell and install all types of garage doors, as well as garage door openers.

Serving the Sauk Valley Area For Over 34 Years!

aluminum • steel • wood • fiberglass vinyl • carriage styles

Residential - Commercial - Industrial Parts, Repair & Springs Repaired

2400 W. 4th St. • Dixon • Weekdays 10am-5pm • Saturday 10am - 3pm

www.gdsonline.biz

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Providing Paramedic Care for Dixon & the Surrounding Area Since 1983

Financial Planning • Investments • Tax Planning

Advance EMS of Dixon, Inc. began in 1983 with one ambulance and five employees.

To date, they have four ambulances, one paramedic intercept vehicle, and 25 employees. Advance EMS of Dixon, Inc. provides advanced life support not just to Dixon but also the surrounding communities.

Located at The First National Bank in Amboy 1314 N. Galena Avenue, Dixon, IL

800-216-0008 ext 5303

Securities are offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Insurance products offered through LPL Financial or its licensed affiliates. The investment products sold through LPL Financial are not insured The First National Bank in Amboy deposits and are not endorsed, recommended or guaranteed by The First National Bank in Amboy or any government agency. The value of the investment may fluctuate, the return on the investment is not guaranteed, and loss of principal is possible.

ADVANCEEMS

815-288-6898

661 Reynoldswood Rd. Dixon 24 hours a day. 365 days a year.

NO Appointment Needed Services!

- Alignments - Brakes -Shocks/Struts - Oil Changes

- Fluid Exchanges - Rental Vehicles - Hitches - Tires of ALL Sizes!

- Nitrogen - Wheels - Bed Covers - & MORE!

We do “Moore” than just tires!

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Many Tastes

Photos by Alex T. Paschal/Dixon Living Pad Woon Sen is a dish served in a crispy, egg noodle basket.

Orient of the

BY SHELBY KUEPKER | SPECIAL TO DIXON LIVING

There’s a lot to choose from at Bangkok Gardens

A

restaurant in Dixon has a garden-variety menu – but it’s far from ordinary.

Bangkok Gardens brings an authentic taste of the Orient to the Sauk Valley, and there’s a lot to taste. The menu boasts nearly 150 items, plus desserts (you can check it out at bangkokgardens.weebly.com).

The restaurant offers Japanese, Thai and Vietnamese food, decedant desserts and more.

Kadkeo Keotanya, 45 of Dixon, has owned and operated the restaurant since it opened in November 2011. But she’s more than just the boss; she’s a cook, making all of the entrees and sauces on her own.

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The sushi is the real star of the show.

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Keotanya came to the United States when she was just 19, and she and her husband have been citizens of the country for years now.

Keotanya custom cooks all the entrees, and she’s always willing to accommodate customers’ special requests. Some customer favorites include the crab rangoon appetizer and sushi. Her special sauces are a big hit with customers.

For customers who’d rather have some food closer to home, Bangkok offers different cuts of grilled steaks, such as grilled salmon steak, served with spicy garlic-lime sauce, a rib-eye steak served with teriyaki sauce and A1 steak sauce, and a New York steak served with teriyaki sauce and A1 steak sauce.

While you’re waiting, you can have a cup of Thai tea or coffee.

For the lunch crowd, Bangkok Gardens offers lunch specials from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. weekdays, featuring different takes on fried rice, rice plates, Thai curries or pan-fried noodles.

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The chicken rice soup is a good appetizer or entree.

If you can’t plant yourself in the Gardens for a meal, deliveries are available, with a $15 minimum order and a $3 charge inside of Dixon, $5 outside.

The restaurant even offers party trays for events.

The word variety defines Bangkok Gardens, with its diverse selection of Thai and Japanese food, and Keotanya aims to make sure customers finish their meal full and happy, leaving them thinking what a Gardens of delight her restaurant is. s

Bangkok Gardens ADDRESS:

504 S. Galena Ave. Dixon, IL 61021

PHONE:

815-677-9038

ONLINE:

bangkokgardens.weebly.com

HOURS:

11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday-Thursday, 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday

We invite you to stop by and enjoy a multi-level shopping experience

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