SVM-MAG

PRSRT STD Bulk Rate U.S. Postage

PA I D Permit No. 440 Sterling, IL 61081 *****ECRWSSEDDM*****

Living

Postal Customer

SMALL TOWN

P.O. Box 498 Sterling, IL 61081

CHANGE SERVICE REQUESTED

Amboy, Ashton, Franklin Grove, Paw Paw, Sublette

Sublette eatery boasts good food, fun times

Company helps keep customers comfortable

Amboy company offers variety of protective gear s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

1

Care You Need.

When You Want It.

KSB CENTER FOR HEALTH SERVICES

AMBOY CLINIC

305 E Joe Drive, Amboy - 815- 857-3044

Services Offered: EMILEE BOCKER, MD Family Medicine Family Medicine with Obstetrics KURT CROWE, WE, MD Family Medicine Family Medicine with Obstetrics

FAMILY MEDICINE

PHYSICAL THERAPY

LAB

2

w i n t e r

1 6

Living

SMALL TOWN

COVER • STORY

Amboy, Ashton, Franklin Grove, Paw Paw, Sublette

Publisher Sam R Fisher Advertising Director Jennifer Heintzelman Editor Jeff Rogers Magazine Editors Rusty Schrader Lucas Pauley Page Design Lucas Pauley Published by

Sauk Valley Media 3200 E. Lincolnway Sterling, IL 61081 815-625-3600

FRANKLIN GROVE LIVING AND REHABILITATION CENTER

14 Ameri Pro

Articles and advertisements are the property of Sauk Valley Media. No portion of Small Town 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.

New facility offers homey atmosphere, functionality

Heating & Cooling

Big Enough To Meet All Your Needs, Small Enough To Care!

Boilers • Furnaces • Air Conditioners • Duct Work • Water Heaters

ricing Up Front Pm tes! & Free Esti a uaranteed!

G y ll u F rk o W All & Insured Fully Certifineicdians!

Tech

815-561-4101 815-857-2339

10 1 0 yr yr. Parts / 5 yr. Labor Warranty on All New Fraser-Johnston Equipment!

SM-ST14123-1219

Making the Smart Choice in Sound Investment A Brand of Johnson Unitary Products

Making Homes Comfortable Since 1980! s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

3

Contents 5 Miller Heating & Cooling

11 Dinges Fire Company

Family comes first, but expansion is the plan for local business

Helping small departments important to founders of growing business

14 Franklin Grove Living & Rehabilitation Center New center going over well with employees, patients at facility

20 La Fiesta

24

Mexican-American restaurant going strong 15 years later in Sublette

Rural Renovators – Business has won awards for custom-built projects

815-539-5142 • www.northernillinoisseamlessroofing.com

Roofing Windows ! t s Doors • Siding • c e o j Remodeling • Insulation r P Services • Gutters and d Gutter Guard Services • Roofi e et p l • Windows • Doors • Siding • ng • Insulation Services • Gutters o m Remodeling C and d Gu Gutt tter Gua tt uard rd Servi vice vi cess • Ro ce Roofi ofing • Wi ofi Wind f an NC O• Doors Doo oors oo rs • Siding • Remodeling • Insulation n Services Serv Se rv s d n IL License: #104-005528 • Gutters ters te rs and Gutter Guard Services • Roofing • Wind nd www.mauchcarpentryinc.com s a• Doors • Siding u S idin id ing in g • Remodeling Remo Re mode mo deli de ling li ng • Insulation I nsul ns ulat ul atio at ion io n Services Serv Se rvic rv ices ic es • o Reesiideenttial • Comm mercciall • Inddusstrriaal Rooofinng h Gutters and Gutter Guard Ser ervi vice vi cess • Ro ce Roofi ofin ofi ng n g • Windows • Doors Do •T • Siding • Remodeling deling • Insulation Ins nsul ns ulat ul atio at ion io n Services Serv Se rvic rv ices ic es • Gutters Gut utte ters te rs and Gutter Guard Gu s e d Services • Roofing • Windows • Do Door Doors orss • Si or Sidi Siding ding di ng • R Remodeling emod em odeling • Insula od Insulation e N Services • Gutters and Gutter utter Guar Gu Guard ard ar d Serv Se Services rvic rv ices ic es • Roofi Ro ofin ofi ng n g • Windows Wi • Doors Do ry t • Siding • Remodeling • Insulation ulation n Se Serv Services rvic rv ices ic es • G Gutters utte ut ters te rs a and nd Gutter Gut utte terr Guard te Gu Services Servic e nRoofing • Windows • Doors • Siding p ding • Remodeling R emod em odel od elin el ing in g • Insulation Insu In sula su lati la tion ti on Services S ervi er vice vi ces ce s • Gutters and r a ndow nd owss • Do ow Door Doors orss • Si or Sidi Siding ding di ng • R Remodeling emod em odel od elin el ing in g • In Insula Insulation r C Gutter Guard Services • Roofing • Windows u Services • Gutters and Gutter Guard Services • Roofi Ro ofin ofi ng n g • Windows Wind Wi ndow nd ows ow s • Doors Door Do ors or s • Siding Sidi Si ding di ng • Remodeling R emod em od Yo• Insulation Services • Gutters and Gutter Guard Se l Serv Services rvic rv ices ic es • Ro Roofing Roofi ofin ofi ng • Wi Wind Windows ndow nd owss • Do ow Door Doors orss • Si or Sidi Siding • A lRemodeling • Insulation Services • Gutters and Gutter Guard Services • Roofing • Windows • Doors • Siding r Fo• Remodeling • Insulation Services • Gutters and Gutter Guard Services • Roofing • Windows • Doors • Siding • Remodeling • Insulation Services • Gutters and Gutter Guard Services

Low Slo ope/Flat Roofs s Leak Proof Guaranteed!

,I .

815-539-7867

Over 32 Years Experience!

705 Illinois Ave • Mendota, IL 61342

4

w i n t e r

1 6

Meet the

Elizabeth and Kyle Miller of Miller Heating and Cooling of Ashton have been married for 6 years and have four children Joslin, 14, Lilly, 10, Garrett, 6, and Rhett, 2.

Millers Family business offers wide variety of services

K

STORY BY RACHEL RODGERS & PHOTOS BY ALEX T. PASCHAL FOR SMALL TOWN LIVING

yle Miller’s tenure in construction started when he was about 9 years old.

Fast forward 25 years, and he has built a business covering a wide spectrum services ranging from heating a home to constructing it from the ground up.

The 34-year-old grew up in Franklin Grove, spending weekends and summers working for his father, Ron, who owned Miller Construction.

Continued on page 7

Northern Illinois’ Most Trusted Propane Company 12420 W. Penn Road ~ Polo, IL ~ 815-946-3081 www.burkardtslpgas.com SM-ST14124-1219

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

5

A Care Prairie Crossing Supportive Living offers an innovative approach to assisted living housing for Seniors ages 65+. By combining apartment-style housing, personal care, and the availability of a 24-hour support staff, residents can live independently with dignity and privacy while avoiding the burden of maintaining a home.

Contact us at 815-824-8480.

407 W. Comanche Avenue, Shabbona, Illinois 60550 Financial assistance to those who qualify

– PrairieCrossingLiving.com –

Our facility offers Short Term Rehabilitation, Long Term Care, Respite Care and Memory Care. We take great pride in our facility and strive to create a family atmosphere and achieve this by encouraging residents to take part in our many daily activities.

Contact us at 815-824-2194.

409 W. Comanche Avenue, Shabbona, Illinois 60550 Medicare and Medicaid Approved • Financial Guidance Available

– PrairieCrossing.net –

SM-

6

w i n t e r

1 6

Continued from 5

When he was 13, he got his first job in the field.

“The first thing he let me do on my own was shingle a roof,” he said.

In June 2011, he and his wife, Elizabeth, started Miller Heating & Cooling Services Inc., which also encompasses Miller Construction.

He said he had always wanted to go back into the family business, and his father was happy to see it come to light.

“I think he’s glad to see it grow,” he said. “It grows a little more every year, and we’re a little busier every year.”

The business spans heating and cooling systems as well as remodeling and construction work, including drywall, doors, windows, siding and the like.

Elizabeth, 37, said clients are usually surprised when they learn about all they have to offer, and they generate business mostly from referrals.

“One small project usually turns into five small projects,” she said.

Continued on page 9

Kyle Miller operates Miller Heating & Cooling out of a workshop at his home in Ashton, and said he hopes to expand and build a new shop in the future.

Continued on page 15

Providing Insurance coverage for local homes and farms Since 1869 AMBOY Leffelman & Associates Amboy 815-857-2125 lisa@leffelmanassoc.com

DIXON Sauk Valley Insurance Services 109 6th Street, Dixon 815-288-2541 www.saukvalleyinsurance.com

ERIE Mel Saad Agency 928 8th Avenue, Erie 309-659-2470 saad@mchsi.com

FRANKLIN GROVE Kirchhofer Insurance Store 102 N. Elm, Franklin Grove 815-456-2319 kirchhofferinsurance.com

BRADFORD VICTOR-ADAMS

B V-A

MUTUAL INSURANCE COMPANY Member Owned and Operated

LAMOILLE

PAW PAW

ROCK FALLS

Leffelman & Associates LaMoille 815-638-2171 linda@leffelmanassoc.com

First State Insurance 385 Chicago Rd, Paw Paw 815-627-8552 gsaf74@yahoo.com

LEE CENTER

PROPHETSTOWN

Baylor Insurance Agency Lee Center 815-857-2716 rbaylor1@gmail.com

Schuneman-Hanford Insurance Agency 312 Washington St, Prophetstown (815) 537.2301 www.hanford-ins.com

ROCHELLE

Adami Insurance Agency 712 First Avenue, Rock Falls 815-625-6220 rachel.adamiagency@gmail.com Hugh F. Miller Insurance Agency, Inc. 801 First Avenue, Rock Falls 815-626-1300 hughmillerinsurance.com

MORRISON

Miller Insurance Group 427 N. Main Street, Rochelle 815-561-9911 fax: 815-561-9912 email: insure10@frontier.com

Leffelman & Associates Sublette 815-849-5219 chris@leffelmanassoc.com

Cornerstone Insurance Agency 102 W. Main, Morrison 815-772-7782 lsandrock@2cornerstone.com VanderVinne Agency 127 E. Main St. Morrison 815-772-8900 angievandervinne@yahoo.com

SUBLETTE

Query Insurance Agency 330 May Mart Drive, Rochelle 815-562-4152 mail@queryinsurance.com

815-456-2334

www.bradfordmutual.com

SM-ST14112-1219

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

7

Continuum of Care Campus

An Assisted Living Community We know how very important it is for seniors to keep their identity and maintain their independence while still receiving the assistance they need. The Meadows is tailored for seniors desiring friendship and an active, vibrant and independent lifestyle. It features many of the amenities needed to maintain independence within a safe and secure community. Those residing at The Meadows are free from the burdens of home maintenance and there are no high-cost entry fees.

510 North State Street, Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Phone: 815.456.3000 • Fax: 815.456.2800 TheMeadowsofFranklinGrove.com

LIVING & REHABILITATION CENTER

Our compassionate and dedicated staff strives to provide superior, specialized care in a comfortable, home-like setting.

Franklin Grove Living and Rehab Center is proud to present a wonderful healthcare unit staffed by highly skilled nurses, aides, therapists and consultants, many whom have longevity in the medical field.

Express Rehabilitation An individualized, wellness program is customized for each

resident and incorporates their goals, physical capabilities, and lifestyle requirements. Express Rehab ensures that each patient, once at home, is on a recovery regimen designed to enhance their quality of life.

502 North State Street, Franklin Grove, IL 61031 Phone: 815.456.2374 | Fax: 815.456.2250 FranklinGroveLivingandRehab.com

SM-ST14106-1219

8

w i n t e r

1 6

Continued from 7

Its service area stretches across Lee, Ogle and Whiteside counties and includes Ashton, Dixon, Franklin Grove, Rochelle, Oregon, Chana, Amboy, Prophetstown and Morrison.

In October, the Millers completed the construction of their first house for Jessica and Jamie Rogers in Amboy, finishing the work in about 3 and a half months and handling everything except pouring the concrete foundation and installing the plumbing.

“It was nice to see the project come together from start to finish,” Kyle said.

Elizabeth said by offering a broad range of services, customers don’t have to worry about hiring a handful of contractors to do the work piece by piece.

It also provides a steady workload for their two full-time employees.

“The versatility keeps the employees busy all year, and they’re able to work through the winter,” she said.

The business is operated out of a workshop at their home in Ashton, and Kyle said they hope to expand by adding another employee and building a new sheet metal and wood shop in the future.

His overall goal is to grow to eight employees.

The couple have been married for 6 years and

In June 2011, Kyle and Elizabeth started Miller Heating & Cooling Services Inc., which also encompasses Miller Construction.

Miller Heating & Cooling Call 815-973-2788, go to kylemillerheating.com or find Miller Heating and Cooling on Facebook for more information. have four children Joslin, 14, Lilly, 10, Garrett, 6, and Rhett, 2.

Kyle said running a business has him working on a 24/7 schedule, but he has the

flexibility so that he doesn’t miss events with his family.

“We’re a family business, and we emphasize the family part,” he said. s

KEN NELSON AUTO GROUP

Ten Franchiese - One Location Proudly serving the Sauk Valley Area for over 50 years!

1100 N. Galena Ave - Dixon, IL

WWW.KENNELSONAUTO.COM .KENNELSONAUTO.COM

815-288-4455 s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

9

“Great Deals, Great Service, Since 1926”

Rt. 52 N. Sublette, IL Ph. 815/849-5232 or 1-800-227-5203 After 6, 849-5251

www.vaessenbrothers.com SM-ST14100-1219

10

w i n t e r

1 6

Dinges Fire set up for blazing growth Company finds time to help small, struggling departments

N

STORY BY PAM EGGEMEIER & PHOTOS BY ALEX T. PASCHAL FOR SMALL TOWN LIVING

ick Dinges is the third of four generations of firefighters in his family. After several years with the Rockford and Macomb fire departments, he decided to use his experience to help make it easier for other firefighters to do their jobs.

Dinges is owner and CEO of Dinges Fire Company in downtown Amboy. Formerly known as Illinois Fire Store, the business was started in August 2002. It now is one of the largest fire, emergency medical service, and rescue distributors in the Midwest, carrying products from more than 100 manufacturers.

Continued on page 12

TOP: The Dinges Fire Company in Amboy supplies equipment and gear to fire, EMS and other first responders. ABOVE: In addition to protective clothing, the store sells hydraulic tools and thermal imaging cameras.

Avonlea Cottage of Dixon For a tour contact Executive Director Alma Wood

Compassionate Memory Care

503 Countryside Lane, Dixon, IL Phone 815-288-6044 Cell 815-499-1682 www.avonleacottage.com

Our Dedicated Memory Care Community Features:

.. Licensed & CertiďŹ ed Nursing 24/7 .. On Site Portable X-Ray, EKG, Lab & Podiatry Services .. On Site Medical Director Service .. Personal Emergency Response System .. Variety of planned Memory Care based activities and special events .. Nutritious Home Cooked Meals

.. Music Therapy twice a week by a licensed therapist .. Housekeeping & Laundry Service .. Beautician & Barber Service .. QualiďŹ ed Veterans Assistance .. All inclusive, month to month, no lease .. Price range $4,300 - $4,500/month

Avonlea Cottage of Sterling Assisted Living Community 2201 E. LeFevre Road, Sterling, IL Phone 815-626-5439

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

11

Continued from 11

Dinges, an Amboy High School graduate, lives in Sublette. For him, it was never a career choice – it was a way of life. Growing up, he remembers riding along on fire calls with his father and brother.

“We have had nine family members in fire service, including my brother, father, and grandfather,” Dinges said. “We have about 200 years of service between all of us.”

His 81-year-old dad, Don, is in his 60th year of service, and still going strong.

“Dad’s a trustee for the Sublette Fire Protection District, after being deputy chief for many years,” Dinges said.

Brother, Tony, has been in the business for 33 years, and Nick still works as a lieutenant and paramedic with the Sublette Fire Protection District.

Dinges joined the company in its first year, and became owner and CEO in 2011. He said the name change, made earlier this year, was done to better reflect the company’s customer base.

“We have salespeople in several states now, and our online presence expands the base even more,” Dinges said.

The biggest piece of the business is protective clothing, which Dinges says accounts for about

The staff at Dinges are: Jaime Schafer (left), administrative assistant, Nick Dinges, owner, Chaon Hanson, outside sales, Karen Ely, business manager and Jeff Bryant, president.

40 percent of sales. There is a wide variety of merchandise, however, covering everything from breathing apparatus to specialty cameras and training systems.

Dinges Fire Company now has eight full-time

employees and eight part-timers on staff. The company sees tremendous growth potential in the not-so-distant future.

Continued on page 13

Rated 5 stars 2015

Bauer Financial www.bauerfinancial.com

Where you come first.

DIXON FRANKLIN GROVE 1314 N. Galena Ave. 108 N Elm St. 728 S. Crawford Ave.

AMBOY 220 E. Main St. 301 E. Joe Dr.

815-857-3625 www.fnbamboy.com

12

w i n t e r

1 6

Continued from 12

“We hope to grow 2 to 3 times where we are now in the next 7 years,” Dinges said. “We’re looking forward to providing more good jobs in the Sauk Valley.”

The company also serves as an intermediary for helping smaller fire operations find equipment from donor departments. The type of philanthropy is very important to Dinges and Jeff Bryant, the company’s president and co-founder.

“We love when we can help donate trucks because Jeff and I came from departments that didn’t have much equipment,” Dinges said.

Dinges said they help find vehicles, extrication and turnout gear – anything they can get their hands on.

“We’re kind of like the big brothers to find solutions for the departments that have no budgets or such small ones that they can’t buy these things,” Dinges said. “Jeff ’s family is full of firefighters and EMS personnel too, and it’s really one big brotherhood.”

Dinges also serves as president of Sublette 365, a nonprofit that helps with an array of village improvement projects. He is an instructor for smoke recognition training at Sauk Valley Community College, and is a member of the Amboy Education Foundation and Amboy FFA Alumni chapter. s

Dinges Fire Company

The shop has a supply of local and national decals, but the biggest piece of the business is protective clothing, which owner Nick Dinges says accounts for about 40 percent of sales.

s m a l l

t o w n

Specialty: A wide variety of equipment and protective clothing for firefighters and emergency services personnel Address: 243 E. Main St., Amboy Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, closed Saturday and Sunday Contact: Call 815-857-2000 or email info@ dignesfire.com; customers can shop at dingesfire.com

l i v i n g

13

Feeling right at home Residents enjoying new addition at Franklin Grove Living & Rehab Center STORY BY PAM EGGEMEIER & PHOTOS BY ALEX T. PASCHAL FOR SMALL TOWN LIVING

14

w i n t e r

1 6

ABOVE: Administrator Jessica Rogers shows off the new suites at the center. The rooms have flat-screen smart TVs and barn-style bathroom doors that are both trendy and efficient with space. ON PAGE 14: Above, Gordon Carlson is helped out of a car by occupational therapist Dan Peterson while the two work in the gym at the the Franklin Grove Living & Rehabilitation Center. The shiny Malibu, parked near the kitchen area, allows residents and their families to work on transport issues before the return home. Below, The dining area is well lit with many windows and a nice view of the campus.

S

taff and residents at Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center have a history of getting a bit carried away with holiday decorations, and this year there was even more to decorate.

Staff and residents usually start decorating for Christmas in October, making elaborate plans for themed rooms that depict everything from Victorian manors to the Wild West.

After more than a year of planning and construction work, the facility’s new rehab center was opened to the public in June.

The 9,000-square-foot expansion project features a large therapy room, six private Medicare suites, a bathing spa, bistro, and a new dining room that leads to an outdoor patio area.

The common denominators throughout the addition are a homey atmosphere and functionality.

The therapy room includes a kitchen area, where appliances, including a stove, refrigerator, washer and dryer are set up. The rehab

More information The Franklin Grove Living & Rehabilitation campus, 502 N. State St., offers a continuum of care, from independent apartment living to assisted living at The Meadows, and skilled nursing. Short-term respite care and hospice are also part of the offerings.

The campus is licensed for 132 residents. The facility is going through the licensing process to provide outpatient rehab therapy. The facility’s central location draws residents from about an 80-mile radius – Rockford and central DuPage County east, to the Quad Cities west.

Email via the website at franklingrovelivingandrehab.com or call 815-4562374 for more information about Franklin Grove Living & Rehabilitation. experience includes working on day-to-day tasks that allow for independence when short-term residents return home.

“Everything in the therapy room is set up to mimic the residents’ real home environment,” said Josh Graber, director of operations for Momentum Healthcare, based in Skokie.

Momentum Healthcare also operates Oregon Living & Rehabilitation Center, and two facilities in Shabbona.

The Momentum name was inspired by the name of the company’s owner, Moe Herman of Skokie. By all accounts, Herman is the epitome of a hands-on leader.

“Moe is really involved in his properties,” Graber said. “He visits the residents at each facility every week,” Graber said.

Graber said the facility is going through the licensing process for outpatient therapy services.

Continued on page 16

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

15

Continued from 15

Planners went the extra mile by bringing a car into the therapy room, although residents won’t be putting any miles on the vehicle. The shiny Malibu, parked near the kitchen area, allows residents and their families to work on transport issues before the return home.

“Oftentimes, people aren’t sure they can even do the motions needed to get in and out of a car, so instead of working on similar motions, they can get in and out of the car with us,” said Resident Services Coordinator Kathy Clark, who has worked on campus for 44 years.

Marge Pelka of Rochelle, who was diligently riding a specialized exercise bike, came to the rehab center just before Thanksgiving. She said she’s been putting in some cardio-pulmonary work, and should be home in time for Christmas.

“I’ve had some lung problems, then I got pneumonia and couldn’t get rid of it,” Pelka said. “The hospital released me here for 21 days, and I’m feeling much better now.”

Pelka said she has been impressed with the

new addition, and the care she has received during her stay.

“It’s very nice here, and I like that it’s so bright and cheery – it helps get you motivated to do the work you need to do,” Pelka said.

The homey feeling is perhaps best conveyed in several visitor areas, including the new bistro, tastefully decorated with flatscreen TVs, fireplaces, laminate wood flooring, and a full complement of living room furniture.

“The families are very involved here, so it’s a big benefit to have so many lounge areas that offer some privacy for visits,” Administrator Jessica Rogers said.

Ruthanna Rodatz of Rochelle, a 5-year resident of the campus, is known as an entertainer extraordinaire. She was even spending some alone time in one of the living areas, until frequent visitor Beya, a small black Lab mix, came in to say hello.

Beya was friendly, yet polite, waiting for instructions from her owner, CNA Supervisor Tonya Angell.

Rodatz said the construction period could be challenging at times, but the

ALWAYS AT YOUR DISPOSAL

Serving Lee, Whiteside, Carroll, Bureau and Ogle Counties

• 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

www.republicservices.com

16

w i n t e r

1 6

end result was well worth any inconvenience.

“We had to adjust to new routes to supper tables, but now it’s larger and easier to get around,” Rodatz said. “It’s convenient, and everything has been beautified indoors and out.”

Rodatz said her favorite place to hang out is the new bistro area, which is made to order for a social butterfly such as herself.

“I do get a lot of visitors, for which I’m very thankful, and now there are so many nice areas where I can spend time with my company,” Rodatz said.

The Medicare suites have large bathrooms that are also set up to be like the ones residents use at home. Huge showers with earth-tone tile and backsplash detailing almost make you forget they are built for functionality.

The suites were made to be private, but they have enough space for improvisation.

“Our goal was to keep them private, but we can set them up for double occupancy if spouses or caretakers are staying,” Rogers said.

Continued on page 18

Serving The Sauk Valley Area For Over 35 Years!

GARAGE DOOR

Specialists

Garage Doors Installations • Sales • Service

We sell and install all types of garage doors, as well as garage door openers. aluminum • steel • wood • fiberglass • vinyl • carriage styles Parts, Repair & Springs Repaired Residential - Commercial - Industrial

1311 W. 4th Street, Sterling 815-626-8911

gdsonline.biz

Lester Eckberg works a stationary bike in the gym of the rehab center.

F l a v o r s We bring life to products.TM

Sensient Flavors offers innovative, global taste solutions and sweet flavor delivery systems that help bring life to your dairy, confectionery and bakery products.

Our leading-edge technologies reflect our core philosophies to be dynamic and innovative and to add value to your applications. You can count on Sensient as your partner for sweet success.

25 E. Main St., Amboy, IL SM-ST14111-1219

PLUMBING PROFESSIONALS We’ll fix it right!

• Free Estimates • Fully Licensed & Insured

PFOUTZ PLUMBING & HEATING 116 W. South St, Franklin Grove

815-456-2421

815-857-3691 SM-ST14093-1219

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

17

Continued from 16

Not only is there a car parked in the therapy room, but one visitors area is a fledgling museum, boasting a huge sleigh with mohair seats as its centerpiece.

“It’s at least 130 years old,” Clark said. “It belonged to a gentleman who stayed here, and we were able to purchase it after he died.”

In another corner of the room, a collection of old hats is on display. The family of another resident has it on loan to the facility.

The decorative flair that makes the new addition so homey is captured in one last deft touch.

“The Christmas tree in here is decorated with small clocks because this room is timeless,” Clark said.

Staff hosted an open house Dec. 11, but tours can be arranged any time by contacting Rogers or Clark at 815456-2374. s

There are several common areas for visiting with friends and family. “The families are very involved here, so it’s a big benefit to have so many lounge areas that offer some privacy for visits,” Administrator Jessica Rogers said.

Roxy Stenzel – Kirchhofer Insurance

Putting lives back together one family at a time.

When bad things happen, make sure you have an insurance company that’s committed to helping you repair, rebuild, and grow. Rockford Mutual is the company. We’ve been putting lives back together for over 116 years.

Lori Erbes

G.R.I, Managing Broker

Cell: 815-535-6295

Realtor® Broker

Cell: 815-343-1966

lerbes@woodhavenassociation.com

bwillis@woodhavenassociation.com

Mary Lovgren

Anna Tokarczyk

Cell: 815-994-1449

Cell: 630-965-6054

Realtor® Broker

mlovgren@woodhavenassociation.com

Rockford Mutual Insurance Company providesinsurancecoverageforpersonal auto, homeowners, business owners, commercial auto, and farmowners.

Bonita Willis

Diane Eisenberg Realtor® Broker

Cell: 815-312-8484 deisenberg@woodhavenassociation.com

Realtor® Broker

annakiefko@msn.com

Winter Hours

Monday - Friday 9:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Saturday 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Please call for an appointment

Kirchhofer Insurance Store

Contact Ro Roxy Stenzel • 815-456-2319 102 N Elm Street, Franklin Grove, IL 61031

815-849-5476

www.woodhavenlakes.com

office@kirchhoferinsurance.com EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY

18

w i n t e r

1 6

â

The spa at Franklin Grove Living and Rehabilitation Center has several large shower stalls and a walk-in tub.

Jones Funeral Homes

We’re here to help you grow!

DIXON • 204 S. Ottawa Ave. • 815-288-2241 Patrick R. Jones, Sr.

Ask Us About Our Guaranteed Prearrangement Contracts Rated 5 stars 2015 Bauer Financial www.bauerfinancial.com

Where you come first.

AMBOY • 303 E. Main St. • 815-857-2611 Patrick R. Jones, Jr.

w w w. t h e j o n e s f h . c o m

DIXON FRANKLIN GROVE 1314 N. Galena Ave. 108 N Elm St. 728 S. Crawford Ave.

AMBOY 220 E. Main St. 301 E. Joe Dr.

815-857-3625 www.fnbamboy.com s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

19

Life of the party La Fiesta known for fajitas, family-friendly atmosphere STORY BY ASHLEY CADY & PHOTOS BY BRANDON BONNETTE FOR SMALL TOWN LIVING LEFT: Owner Ana Gutierrez, 48, provides a smiling face as she serves customers at La Fiesta in Sublette. Her husband and co-owner, Hector Gutierrez, 50, creates both Mexican and American dishes in the kitchen.

WE ARE THE BEST PART OF A BAD SITUATION Professional auto body services at affordable prices Quality. Convenience. Reliability

101 W 2nd Street, Rock Falls, IL (815) 625-0129

Mon. - Thurs. 9am - 5pm; Fri. 9am - 7pm Sat. 9am - 4pm; Sun. Noon - 4pm

www.wheelockfurniture.com

EZ Financing 20

w i n t e r

0% Interest 1 6

Our goal is your satisfaction.

344 US Rt. 52, Sublette, IL • 815-849-9090 SM-ST14103-1219

W

hen you turn onto Main Street in Sublette, La Fiesta’s big sign is hard to miss.

The quaint spot might look small from the outside, but inside, there’s huge flavor and a variety of dishes for people of all ages to enjoy.

Owner Hector Gutierrez, 50, creates both Mexican and American dishes. His wife and co-owner, Ana Gutierrez, 48, provides a smiling face as she serves customers at the bar or in the restaurant.

It is hard to pick one reason why customers love La Fiesta, but Ana knows there are some dishes that keep them coming back.

“I wanna say fajitas are really really good, but [Hector] comes out with a Mexican Caesar salad and that’s a really good salad,” she said.

“Everybody that tries it, they love it. Grilled chicken, romaine lettuce, but instead of the croutons he puts tortilla chips and then Parmesan cheese and it’s really, really good. Once you try it you get hooked on it. But the fajitas are really really good.”

The restaurant is also known for its multitude of buffets for almost every day of the week.

Lunch buffets are on Tuesday and Thursday, and Wednesday night’s buffet features pasta and chicken to offer something different to customers.

The fajitas are a favorite of many customers. Served “deconstructed,” it gives the customer the ability to make them however they want.

“Friday and Saturday we have a full dinner buffet,” Ana said. “Sunday morning we have our breakfast buffet, which a lot of people love.

[Hector] puts both Mexican and American on the buffets. For the dinner you can find

fried chicken and mashed potatoes. Our fried chicken, people say is really good, but you can also find your fajitas, nachos and enchiladas on the buffet.”

Continued on page 22

Your Community Banking Partner

for over 119 years

Our Family Protecting Your Family

Auto • Home • Vacation Home • Farm • Crop • Business • Life & Health

& ASSOCIATES INC.

Give Us A Call Today!

Sublette 815-849-5219 | LaMoille 815-638-2171 | Amboy 815-857-2125

We have generations of experience serving our communities with competitive deposit rates and a wide selection of loan products.

West Brooklyn (815)628-3121

Triumph (815)539-3121

www.gehantbank.com s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

21

Ana and Hector Gutierrez opened La Fiesta 15 years ago, about 5 years after they moved here from California. The couple had family in the Sublette area.

La Fiesta

Continued from 21

Address: 107 W. Main St., Sublette Phone: 815-849-9224 Hours: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Friday and Saturday; and 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays; closed Monday Online: lafiesta.com or on Facebook

The loyal customers never miss Taco Tuesday, when tacos are $1. In fact, there was a young boy who did not know Ana by name, so he identified her as “Taco Tuesday” because that is when he would see her at the restaurant.

Though the work can be hard, the family does know how to have some fun with their customers. From holiday parties that feature lobster and prime rib, to vendor shows that help drum up

    

         

        

22

w i n t e r

business, they love to think outside the box to bring in new customers.

When the Chicago Cubs won the World Series, the bar made blue margaritas. Margaritas are $2.50 on Thursdays.

“I enjoy it a lot,” Ana said. “I’m always out there at the bar with the customers.”

Hector has been a chef his whole life, previously working in DoubleTree hotels and Ana has experience as a baker.

 

    

      

         

   

           







1 6

“

La Fiesta is known for its delicious margaritas, one of many beverage choices to pair with the Mexican and American dishes.

There are some days [Hector] doesn’t even go home from open to close and there’s times when I have to [work a double shift].

Things can get pretty tricky when [our] children have sports games or there is a family event; it is not easy to get away.

ANA GUTIERREZ

“

They opened the spot 15 years ago, about 5 years after they moved from California. The couple had family in the Sublette area.

“We moved here; we wanted a change,” Ana said.

Previously, her uncle owned the same restaurant under the name The Lodge. Ana and Hector worked there for a about 2 years, until Hector switched jobs.

About 2 years later, the building went up for sale, after a few different owners, and the two of them decided jump on the opportunity.

It was a big change for their family.

“It’s scary at first ordering and [getting a] license for liquor and this, you know all the things, it’s not just work, put your apron on and go home,” Ana said.

Ana and Hector have two daughters, Yessenia, 23, and Yasmine, 19, and one son, Alexis, 17.

Sometimes, if Ana’s lucky, they will help out around the restaurant.

“They were little babies when we were open, they were running around,” she said. “Now they help us sometimes, the two younger [ones].”

This family dynamic is why they decided to name their restaurant La Fiesta.

“There are some days [Hector] doesn’t even go home from open to close and there’s times when I have to [work a double shift],” Ana said. “Things can get pretty tricky when [our] children have sports games or there is a family event; it is not easy to get away.”

But the family enjoys it, Ana said.

“That’s why we call it ‘the party,’ ‘La Fiesta,’ because this is always the party.” s

Sales & Service

GERDESSALES.COM

128 S. Mason Ave, Amboy | 815.857.3722

*Account approval, conditions, qualifications, limits, timeframes, enrollments, log-ons and other requirements apply. Qualifications and rewards may vary by account. Enrollment in electronic services (e.g. online banking, electronic statements) and log-ons may be required to meet some of the account’s qualifications. Limit 1 account per social security number. There are no recurring monthly service charges or fees to open or close this account.

Contact one of our bank service representative for additional information, details, restrictions, processing limitations and enrollment instructions.

Member FDIC. SM-ST14099-1219

CHECK OUT OUR INVENTORY!

www.fnbrochelle.com

Kasasa is a trademark of BancVue, Ltd., registered in the U.S.A.

s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

23

A good frame of mind Rural Renovators has found success in custom-building structures in the area STORY BY TERRY THOMAS & PHOTOS BY ALEX T. PASCHAL FOR SMALL TOWN LIVING

...An Affair to Remember.

Accommodates 250+ People • Great for Wedding Receptions • Anniversaries and More

Amboy Community Center 280 W. Wasson Rd. , Amboy • 815-857-3814

Julie DeArmitt, Manager

24

w i n t e r

1 6

Serving the Amboy community for 18 years!

(815) 857-2220

SM-ST14098-1219

Make Your Event

134 S. Mason Ave. • Amboy, IL 61310

Kyle Stumpenhorst, owner or Rural Renovators, works on a home in rural Lee County in late August. He said post-frame construction can sometimes get saddled with the “negative connotation” of being used only in barns and storage buildings, but it’s a perception Stumpenhorst likes to prove wrong. “We kind of like to specialize, custom build,” he said. “That’s what we like to do. We even do residential construction.” On Page 24: Greg Haas, 23, Stumpenhorst’s only full-time employee, carries a piece of sheet metal while working on a home.

T

he midsummer sun pounded down mercilessly on the two men stooped and pounding nails atop the partially completed structure. It wasn’t yet midday, and the thermometer already registered near 90 degrees.

“We’re trying to get as much done as we can before the rain comes in,” Kyle Stumpenhorst said in August as he descended from the rooftop, perspiration glistening on his forehead.

“We’re hoping to have this project done by the end of next week.”

He glanced to the west where dark clouds roiled on the horizon, an indication the weather could turn at any moment.

Mother Nature’s mood swings are but one of the challenges Stumpenhorst, 33, faces as owner of Rural Renovators, a Franklin Grove-based building firm that specializes in post-frame construction.

But he’s not complaining.

“It’s a lot of work,” he said, “but I love it” – and it shows. In each of the past 2 years, The National Frame Builders Association, the only national trade association to represent postframe industry professionals, has recognized Rural Renovators for construction excellence.

In 2014, Rural Renovators won Building of the Year in the Hobby Shops category for the multi-purpose building that Stumpenhorst

constructed to serve as the company’s shop and sales office in rural Franklin Grove.

According to the NFBA website, the barn-red building also serves as a “horse barn and kids play area, and ... a tool to demonstrate their capabilities to potential customers.”

On March 10, the company was once again recognized by NFBA at its annual Expo Awards ceremony in Indianapolis. This time, the company received a first-place award in the Commercial Buildings category for the North Court Building, which was constructed for Ken Nelson Auto Plaza in Dixon.

Continued on page 26

SM-ST14096-1219

We invite you to stop by and enjoy a multi-level shopping experience 307 First Ave., Sterling Mon.-Fri. 9 - 6p.m., Sat. 9 - 5p.m., Sun. 10 - 4p.m. s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

25

Business information

Rural Renovators, 1353 Pine Hill Road, Franklin Grove, is a construction company that specializes in custom, post-frame construction.

By September, the firm was booked through the rest of the year, but has been booking jobs for the spring and beyond.

Call 815-677-0265 for more information, or find Rural Renovators on Facebook.

LEFT: Rural Renovators’ showplace and design office earned the building firm a first-place award for Building of the Year from the National Frame Builders Association. RIGHT: On March 10, Rural Renovators earned a first-place award from the National Frame Builders Association for this building on North Court Street in Dixon, which was constructed for Ken Nelson Auto Plaza.

Continued from 25

“I guess it’s kind of unprecedented,” Stumpenhorst said of the consecutive national awards. “But we do good work, and we have good customers.”

Part of the secret to Stumpenhorst’s success is his hands-on approach. He not only designs the structures he helps build them.

“It’s pretty much just the two of us,” he said, pointing to 23-year old Greg Haas, his only full-time employee. Haas, a Franklin Grove native, began working for Rural Renovators 5 years ago.

Together, Stumpenhorst and Haas make sure each construction project meets the company’s

rigorous standards and each customer’s unique needs.

“We just do one [building] at a time,” Stumpenhorst said. “The work has to be done right, and it’s got to look good. Someone is paying good money for what we do, and we want to make sure they’re satisfied when we’re done” A 2001 AFC High School graduate, Stumpenhorst initially planned a much different career. In 2005 he graduated from North Central College in Naperville with an IT degree.

“I took a job in the suburbs,” he said. “But I was inside all the time sitting at a desk, and I

realized this wasn’t for me, not what I wanted to do with my life.”

Construction was sort of a family tradition while Kyle was growing up.

“My mom and dad did a lot of remodeling work, so when I decided to change I started remodeling,” he said.

From there, Kyle moved into building a few homes. Eventually, he decided to concentrate on post-frame construction.

Along the way, Stumpenhorst married and began raising a family. His wife, Lindsy, is the principal of Washington Elementary School in Sterling. They have two children: a 9-year-old son and a 6-year-old daughter.

Small engine repair GROWING FAITH, FAMILY & FRIENDSHIPS!

26

w i n t e r

Sales and Service Mower and Snowblower Repair

Celebration Worship

Sublette, Illinois 815-849-5225

815-284-8680

1 6

Every Sunday at 10:00 A.M.

1403 3H Hemlock Hemlo lock kA Avenue • Di Dixon Dixon, IL www.glcdixon.org Welcoming Environment-Inspiring Music-Encouraging Messages

Zach Haas, 23, takes measurements in August while working on a building for Rural Renovators.

As he retraces the journey that brought him to found Rural Renovators, Stumpenhorst provides a brief tutorial on the differences between postframe and stick-frame construction.

He said he “was attracted to the strength and cost efficiency” of post-frame construction, in which the load-bearing vertical posts are secured in the ground, as opposed to stick built, which are secured to a floating slab or a foundation.

Stumpenhorst admits post-frame construction has “kind of a negative connotation” for certain types of construction, and is usually associated with barns and storage buildings.

That’s not the case with Rural Renovators.

“We kind of like to specialize, custom build,” he said. “That’s what we like to do. We even do residential construction.”

So far, Stumpenhorst has built around 50 structures in the area, with a waiting list that

will have him and Haas working through the winter.

It’s a lot of work, often done in difficult conditions, like the scorching heat of summer and the bone-chilling cold of winter. But for Stumpenhorst, it’s all worth it.

“I’m just living the dream, and that’s really the truth,” he said. “Friday comes, and we finish for the week and I can’t wait until Monday to get back at it.” s

Amboy Veterinary Clinic & Trego Veterinary Service Toni L. Trego, DVM Stephanie Wire, DVM 1 S. Commercial Avenue • Amboy, IL 61310 SM-ST14097-1219

SM-ST14086-1219

*Please Call For Appointment* 815-857-2215 or 815-857-3121 Office Open Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri 8-5 Tues & Sat 8-12 315 S. Mason Ave. (On hwy 52)

Business Busi Bu siness H si Hours: ours:: Mo Mond Monday nday - F nd Friday: rida ri day: 88-5 da -5 Saturday 8-3 • Sunday 10-1

Building Material & Hardware s m a l l

t o w n

l i v i n g

27

EXPERT ELECTRICAL

WORK FOR FAST AND RELIABLE QUALITY ELECTRICAL WORK, CALL OUR PROFESSIONALS TODAY! RESIDENTIAL • COMMERCIAL •FARM•BUCKETTRUCKTRENCHING

OUR BUSINESS IS POWER:

Whether it’s a standby power system for a large data center, a backup generator powering the family home through an outage, portable generators powering tools at the job site, or the cleaning power of a pressure washer, Generac meets the power needs of consumers and businesses alike. Across the country and around the world.

Richardson Rd., Carriage 1886 Amboy 815-849-5598 House 105 12th Street, Mendota, IL Electric 815-538-5598