Dr. William Scurlock—Family Practice

Dr. Michael Rivera—Family Practice

Dr. James Curtis—Family Practice

Dr. Darryl Link—Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

At St. Charles Family Medical Center, patients and their families quickly learn that the doctors and staff place a priority on open communication and preventative, comprehensive care.

“We believe preventative medicine is an important aspect of primary care,” said Amy Fitzgerald, office manager.

The center provides care for newborns when they are born at Delnor-Community Hospital, and the care continues through all ages.

The physicians recommend an evaluation of infants at two weeks of age, and routine well-child examinations are recommended at 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months of age. Children are routinely examined at 2, 3 and 4 years of age.

Physicals are required for school-age children before entrance to kindergarten, sixth and ninth grades. Physicals are also required yearly for sixth through twelfth grade sport participation.

“For adults, we recommend an initial complete medical history and physical examination to establish a medical relationship,” Fitzgerald said. “We recommend screening for specific age-related illnesses and risk factors such as those suggested by the American Heart Association. At a minimum we recommend an examination every three years until the age of 45, and yearly thereafter.”

The office is equipped to perform EKGs, hearing and vision screenings, minor surgical procedures, Pap tests, urinalysis and complete blood drawing services, in addition to all of the recommended immunizations needed for children and adults.

The practice started in August 1981, when Dr. Curtis opened the center. Dr. Scurlock joined the practice in 1984. Dr. Link joined in 1991, and Dr. Rivera in April of 2009. All doctors are board certified, and their range of specialties allows the practice to provide a full range of comprehensive care.

Specialties

Family Practice
Family practice is the medical specialty that provides continuing and comprehensive health care for the individual and family. It is the specialty, which integrates the biological, clinical, and behavioral sciences. The scope of family practice encompasses all ages, both sexes, each organ system, and every disease entity.

Pediatricians
Pediatricians dedicate their efforts and resources to the health, safety and well-being of infants, children, adolescents and young adults.

Internal Medicine
Internists specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of medical problems of adults and the aged.

In addition to the full range of care, the practice is in the process of integrating electronic medical records, and the practice expects to go live with the program on Dec. 16, 2009.

> St. Charles Family Medical Center

For local residents, the Elburn Herald has helped build and strengthen the connections between them and the communities of the Kaneland School District. Through the Elburn Herald’s reporting of all things local every week since 1908, the community-focused newspaper has helped turn the towns in which people live into communities local residents can call home.

“We believe that informed and involved citizens are the backbone of strong communities,” Elburn Herald Editor Ryan Wells said. “We feel it is our responsibility to help citizens become informed so they can become involved.”

The Elburn Herald has helped build the connections between local businesses and their customers as well. From well-designed advertising created by an award-winning design department, to offering numerous ways for local businesses to get their messages out, the Elburn Herald has helped serve as a significant connection between local businesses and their consumers.

“We are constantly learning and implementing new design ideas,” Design Director Leslie Flint said. “From taking classes to attending seminars, we work as a team to get the best results for our advertisers.”

The company also spends much of its efforts in activities that support the community itself, helping strengthen the connections between those in need and those who can provide that help. From its leadership in local chambers of commerce to its help organizing community events, as well as its advocacy for community leaders, the Elburn Herald and its members not only talk the talk, they walk the walk.

“We are very fortunate to be able to be so active in this community,” said Flint, the Elburn Chamber of Commerce’s member of the year in 2004 and 2007. “The chambers are a great area to give back to the community. We are involved in everything from community festivals like Day in the Park, Elburn Days, Aleburn and the Elburn Christmas Stroll, to Sugar Grove candidate nights; it seems like there is always something going on in this community.”

The Elburn Herald began as a community-focused newspaper in 1908. In the 1950s, Richard and Louise Cooper purchased the newspaper, and the family incorporated under the name Kaneland Publications, Inc. (KPI) in the 1980s. Since Richard and Louise’s passing, ownership of the company has been passed down to the next generation.

Retaining its community-service mission, as well as its focus on strong, local coverage, KPI offers far more than its weekly newspaper. It launched its first version of a website in 1998. Since then, the website has been overhauled multiple times, and its current version, updated by Assistant Editor Ben Draper, is among the best websites for newspapers of its size throughout the state, according to the Illinois Press Association and Northern Illinois Newspaper Association. Part of KPI’s online presence includes the ability for viewers to purchase photos—including those published in the newspaper and those not able to be printed—as well as interact with the online content. The improvements to ElburnHerald.com will continue, and Draper said that what is already considered a strong website will take another leap forward soon.

In addition to its strong, local coverage, its high-end online presence and its focus on community service, KPI also offers another way for local businesses and organizations to raise their awareness. KPI offers a variety of materials for organizations, ranging from letterhead and business cards, to invitations, banners and so many promotional items that the only limit is the client’s imagination.

The Elburn Herald has a 100-year tradition of community service by helping strengthen the connections within its community. Between its focus on the community and the range of its offerings, KPI looks to remain a strong and vibrant part of the Kaneland communities for generations to come.

Call or visit KPI at 123 N. Main St., Elburn, call (630) 365-6446 or visit www.elburnherald.com.

The firm’s mission is to develop comprehensive solutions for its clients with a team of attorneys who concentrate in specific areas of law.

The firm’s broad range of practice areas includes all real estate matters, wills and trusts, estate planning, probate, all types of business matters, adoptions, and general litigation. The firm also represents nearly 400 units of local government in northern Illinois, including many in the Kaneland area.

The firm’s 17 attorneys are active in a number of professional organizations, including National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, the Kane County and DuPage County Bar Associations, the Illinois Bar Association, Illinois Township Attorney’s Association, the Illinois Association of Fire Protection Districts, the Illinois Municipal League, the Illinois Institute of Local Government Law, and the Illinois Association of School Boards.

Having served the Elburn area since 1978, the attorneys at Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper & Gilbert, Ltd. pride themselves in their commitment to the community, as evidenced by their participation and various leadership roles in numerous community organizations.

The attorneys most frequently seen at the Elburn office are Robert J. Britz, Brian J. O’Connor and William R. Thomas.

Before entering law school in 1975, Mr. Britz served three years with the U.S. Marine Corps, including a tour of duty in Vietnam as platoon commander. He entered the practice of law in 1978, working with John L. Nickels in Elburn. When Mr. Nickels became an Illinois circuit court judge in 1982, and later an Illinois Supreme Court justice, Mr. Britz established his own practice in Elburn.

Mr. Britz holds the highest peer review rating, “AV,” from Lexis-Nexis Martindale-Hubbell, a nationwide legal directory, and is a member of many professional organizations, including the Kane County Bar Association, of which he is a past president. Mr. Britz is also a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

Mr. O’Connor enjoyed a distinguished military career prior to law school. He entered the U.S. Army as a commissioned officer in 1975 and retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after more than 21 years of continuous service. Following his retirement, Mr. O’Connor was employed in the private sector, in the United States and overseas. While in law school, Mr. O’Connor interned with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois. He has been with Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper & Gilbert, Ltd. since 2004.

Mr. Thomas had been an Assistant State’s Attorney and Public Defender for Shelby County, Ill. Mr. Thomas has represented the Illinois Department of Transportation as a Special Assistant Attorney General in condemnation matters. Since 2005, he has served the city of Chicago as a Special Assistant Corporation Counsel in the condemnation and acquisition of property associated with the O’Hare Modernization Program. Mr. Thomas has been with Ottosen Britz Kelly Cooper & Gilbert, Ltd. since 2007.

In ever-changing times when each day can bring new and unexpected issues, having local attorneys available with knowledge and experience to address these issues can prove invaluable.

Many of the people we care for are older adults who have recently been hospitalized after an accident, stroke, surgery or other illness. It’s our goal to help these patients regain and restore as much strength as possible to aid recovery and improve their daily living skills so they can safely return home. Commonly known as short-term rehabilitation, this service is covered by Medicare and includes physical, occupational and speech therapy.

At Provena Pine View Care Center, we strive to make our short-stay patients’ time here as comfortable as possible and do our best to accommodate them. From private suites equipped with their own bathrooms and flat-screen televisions to a 24-hour cafe where patients can get coffee, tea, juice or snacks at any time of day, our facility has all the comforts and conveniences of home … and more!

We provide a continuity of on-site care—a one-stop shop for healthcare services, if you will—and although we have a medical director on staff, we gladly welcome your physician to see you here and will even provide him/her with reports on your progress. In addition, should the need ever arise for you or a loved one to receive a higher level of care, Provena Pine View Care Center will be there for you.

We provide skilled nursing care, which gives our long-term residents full-time assistance with daily life activities. Our short-stay respite care allows caregivers temporary or occasional time off to help them regain emotional strength or even take a vacation.

Rest assured that Provena Pine View Care Center is committed to providing you with high-quality nursing care, including registered and restorative care nurses and certified nursing assistants. Our team of social work, dietary, recreational and pastoral care staff will care for your physical, emotional and spiritual needs.

We’re also setting a higher standard by opening the lines of communication with our patients, residents and their loved ones. Although nothing can replace a personal visit, family members and friends can send an e-mail to a current patient or resident through the Provena website at www.provena.org/seniors. We’ve also made it easier to stay up-to-date on our latest news and events by joining Facebook. While you’re checking your profile, you can also check ours for new pictures, videos and helpful resources—become a fan todayvi!

Finally, we know that a picture is worth a thousand words, so we invite you to take a virtual tour of Provena Pine View Care Center on our website so you can see us up-close—without having to leave the comfort of home.

Provena Pine View Care Center is a not-for-profit Catholic healthcare organization, part of the Provena Senior Services family of communities that provide care for older adults. We are committed to the mission of building communities of healing and hope for those in need.

Located in a quiet, residential setting at 611 Allen Lane in St. Charles, Ill., we are less than 10 miles away from the Elburn community and look forward to meeting the needs of older adults and their loved ones in this area!

You can learn more about us by calling (630) 377-2211 or visiting us on the web at www.provena.org/seniors/eh.

Dr. Staker’s family has been been providing chiropractic care since 1913. There have been eight chiropractors in the family, including sons Bryce J. and Bryan, both Kaneland graduates. Dr. Bryce J. Staker has practiced with his father for a number of years. Coincidentally, son Bryan is opening a new practice in Pennsylvania this month, 40 years to the day when his father began.

Dr. Bryce C. Staker opened his first practice in Geneva in 1969. It grew and he moved to a larger office, before building his own clinic in 1976 at 501 Lark St., Geneva across from Delnor Hospital, where it remains to this day.

The practice has long been known for relieving headaches and back, neck, shoulder, arm, hip and leg pain through spinal adjustments. Dr. Bryce C. Staker said “we’ve helped a lot of people out of pain in the past. But we couldn’t remove an abnormal alignment. That takes more than adjustments.”

Today, reflecting Staker Family Chiropractic’s motto, “Simply a better chiropractic experience,” the practice can do more.

Dr. Bryce J. Staker, a graduate of the Palmer College of Chiropractic with a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (cum laude), is certified in spinal rehabilitation work. That means “we not only treat the symptom, but we can also get to the cause of the problem,” Dr. Bryce C. Staker said. This is one of the few practices in the western suburbs so certified.

The practice now specializes in rehabilitating the spine and lower back with spinal exercises and rehabilitative traction to restore neck and back curves to near normal posture.

The office is equipped with the latest technological advances, including Power Plates acceleration platforms. These speed up tissue repair and increase muscle strength and stability and joint mobility. The practice also can help patients with chronic back pain and spinal arthritis.

Dr. Bryce C. Staker said, “We are getting better results and more long lasting results than we’ve ever gotten in 40 years.”

He is now “passing on the passion” to his son. To celebrate the 40th anniversary, Staker Family Chiropractic is rolling back fees to 1969 levels for the next 30 days: $25 for spinal examinations, and X-rays, if needed. That’s a $200 value. Make an appointment today by calling (630) 232-6616.

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Seventeen years ago, he started his business armed with a 1967 flatbed pick-up truck, and what he calls the “bare necessities—tools.”

From those humble beginnings his business quickly grew, due to referrals from satisfied and repeat customers.

Armed with expertise in a variety of disciplines, combined with a focus on customer satisfaction, it is no wonder that it was word-of-mouth referrals that have helped his business flourish.

“The customer must be happy with our professionalism and neatness while doing the work on completion,” Bill said. “Then it carries on to the next customer, and so on.”

That focus on the customers was instilled in Bill at an early age. Born and raised in a family-owned and run business, Ring’s Greenhouse and Floral in Elburn, Bill learned first-hand from his father the importance of putting the customer first.

“Since a young age, I was taught that customer relations and satisfaction was important to having a successful business,” he said. “To this day I still feel strongly about that and believe it.”

As word spread of his company’s qualities, Bill found himself expanding, moving from only performing residential work to including commercial work—ranging from restaurants and hotels and beyond—as well as industrial work.

But even as his business has grown and his clientele has diversified, Bill still holds on to that focus of placing the customer first.

“I am my business, so therefore we are honest and fair,” Bill said. “My goal is to make sure the customer is satisfied and happy, so that Bill’s Custom Services can add another name to the satisfied customer list.”

Bill’s Custom Services is a member of the Better Business Bureau. It can be found at www.chicago.bbb.org.

“We believe we are successful because we truly enjoy what we do. Being a privately owned business can translate into more personal service. We pride ourselves in being one of the most knowledgeable cabinetry companies,” Ingrid said.

Ingrid recalls a time when she visited a client’s home to provide an estimate for new cabinetry. It was a kitchen constructed by her father over 45 years ago. Kris Anderson was a little hesitant to replace the custom cabinets her parents had so long. Ingrid reassured her and the kitchen was then updated. “It’s really nice keeping clients with the family business. It shows the type of quality, knowledge and longevity our business has.”

I.B.Quality Cabinets has been specializing in kitchen renovations for over three decades. A 3-D rendering design service helps clients in creating and visualizing their cabinetry needs throughout their home. We will help you develop an initial plan and guide you every step of the way throughout your project. We determine your needs to ensure your project’s success. Working with you to develop a cost-effective solution is the most important goal.

As a third-generation carpet-installer, Skarda worked his first job at the age of 12, and by the age of 18 he was was selling and installing carpet in entire homes by himself.

A few years ago, he learned about Carpet Direct and its business model, and quickly acquired the broker position for the Western suburbs of Chicago.

“Carpet Direct is unique because we have no stores or showrooms,” Skarda said. “This has resulted in the loss of a tremendous amount of overhead … This is partially why we have the pricing that we have. We are unique because nobody sells more Stainmaster than us and everybody else has big stores and showrooms.”

Although carpet is in his blood, his passion is helping people save money, especially in today’s economy.

“I have saved people up to 50 percent in the past, and it’s a great feeling,” Skarda said. “It’s one thing to save someone money by selling them a cheaper product—which is what other stores do—but when you can save anywhere from 30 to 50 percent on the best quality product available, that’s even better.”

Because of the significant pricing advantage Carpet Direct brings to the table, Skarda has ambitious plans for his company’s future. He aims to add two sales agents and double his sales in the next year, and expand to five sales agents within the next five years.

The lifelong western St. Charles resident believes that when you compare his product and pricing to his competitors, those goals are well within reach.

“Go to Stainmaster.com to learn about their product and their non-prorated warranties,” Skarda said. “Shop around and find the best deal you can on Stainmaster carpet, then call Carpet Direct for a free estimate and you will see that Carpet Direct is the real deal.”

Carpet Direct operates in 35 cities across the nation and is the number-one seller of Stainmaster carpet nationwide.

Valleybrook Community Church has been meeting at the Blackberry Creek Elementary School for four years, and they want to let you know you are welcome to join them any Sunday.

Every Sunday morning, the church trailer pulls up to the school around 7 a.m., and a team of dedicated volunteers begin unloading and setting up the sound system, lights, musical instruments, chairs and everything else needed to turn a school cafeteria and gymnasium into a church.

When asked how he would describe Valleybrook, Smith said, “Our driving vision is to help people find and follow God. Our method for accomplishing this is very simple. We teach the Bible in a straightforward and understandable way, worship Jesus with sincerity, and love one another.”

When asked if newcomers need to be religious to come, Smith joked, “No—actually, we would prefer that you were just an ordinary sinner. No one needs to pretend at Valleybrook.”

Dave and Kathy Zarn, longtime members, said this about the church they obviously love, “Valleybrook has been a blessing to our spiritual growth and that of our entire family. The atmosphere is warm, the people have joy on their faces and love for each other, the messages are clear and speak the truth, and the music is alive, allowing for a very meaningful expression of worship. The Sunday morning experience stays with us all for the entire week—what more could a family ask for these days?”

Margaret Mangers joined in by saying, “If you’re looking for a church where the Bible is clearly and faithfully taught, a place where the music is great, a place where there are lots of kids and a great children’s program, and a place where the people truly love one another, then Valleybrook is the place for you.”

Shelley Johnson said, “I have loved Valleybrook from the first Sunday I attended. I was greeted warmly by each person I passed. My children were welcomed with smiles and introductions to the other children. And I heard the word of God taught with passion, humility and truth. It is evident from the time you arrive at Valleybrook, that they are a congregation committed to teaching and training this generation and the next, to know Jesus as their personal Savior and to share Him with the world.”

Valleybrook does plan on one day building or buying a permanent home. It has looked into a number of options, including buying an existing church, buying land and constructing a new building, or converting an existing business into a church.

Valleybrook meets every Sunday at 10 a.m. at Blackberry Creek Elementary School and can be reached at www.Valleybrook Church.com or by phone at (630) 879-7035. In addition to Sunday service, the church has a number of mid-week Bible studies and a new Monday Night Gathering that includes a Men’s Bible Study, a Women’s Bible Study, Youth Bible Study, a Children’s Program, and a nursery. All are welcome. The Monday Night Gathering meets at Faith Baptist Church on the corner of W. Main Street and Mill Creek Drive, Geneva.

The event, Holiday Designer Showcase, will offer stunning fall and holiday florals, ornaments, gift wraps, accessories and raffle items. All florals, ornaments and accessories will be created by designers Lynn Brandys, Barb Hollmier and Rose Giliberto, and they will all be available for purchase.

On Saturday, the Showcase continues to offer fall and winter holiday designer items, gift wraps and accessories, and raffle tickets for purchase.

Two demonstrations will be offered on Saturday. At 11 a.m. Swoozie’s will show folks how to be creative and festive with holiday gift wraps, and at 1 p.m., Barb Hollmier will show folks how to put together Holiday Floral Containers.

Tickets are $15 each, or two for $20, and are available at the Sugar Grove Library Friends Used Book Store in the library, as well as online.

The event is fully volunteer run, and all proceeds will support the library in acquiring new materials and providing a variety of programs for the residents of the Library District.

“We encourage everyone—even if you are not in our library district—to come and enjoy good food, good music, good wine and great company while getting excited about the upcoming holiday season by strolling through this holiday wonderland of exquisite decorations,” said Friends member Pat Graceffa.

“It’s natural for me,” Mr. Marco said. “I love to be creative in making beautiful pieces.”

Mr. Marco began making jewelry in the eighth grade, and won 12 awards for his designs and craftsmanship while in high school; one of which was the Golden Key Award, a first-place, national honor.

“I really enjoy watching people’s faces when they see their finished jewelry for the first time, or if they are looking at their old pieces that have been made to look like brand new,” Mr. Marco said.

After beginning his career on Jeweler’s Row in downtown Chicago, he opened a location on Third Street in St. Charles. Seven years later, he moved to his current location on Main Street, and has been there for 20 years.

Mr. Marco specializes in custom-made jewelry with fine diamonds and colored gemstones. He can remount old designs to create updated designs, and will buy old gold for cash or as a trade-in for merchandise. He also makes jewelry repairs, replaces watch batteries and provides appraisals on jewelry.

“I can fix and make anything—any style, any metal, any gemstone,” Mr. Marco said.

And he personally selects those metals and gemstones. He travels the globe in search of the best gemstones and the best prices; from diamonds purchased in Tel Aviv, Israel, colored gemstones in Bangkok, pearls from the South China Sea and Hong Kong, to gold from Italy, Mr. Marco searches for the highest quality for the highest value.

All of this is done to ensure that his customers have the best to choose from—the best materials, the best designs, the best craftsmanship.

“I work hard and try to please everybody by making the best jewelry possible,” Mr. Marco said.

For Tom Lexvold and his team at Carpet & Fabric Technicians (C.F.T. Inc) in Elburn, you go about business even in the midst of rising water.

“In September 2008, when we had a lot of rain, for the first time ever we had our own flood,” Tom recalls. “We had 18 inches of water going through our office and warehouse like a river.” With computers on crates, no carpet on the floor, and files on top of cabinets, Tom said things were a little crazy.

“Then the hundreds of water damage calls came in and our office water damage was put on hold until all of the customers were taken care of,” he said.

That is what you do when you strive to be the best in your industry.

“I believe ‘the best’ is not just a slogan, but a way of doing business,” Tom said.

“Therefore, our slogan ‘when you’ve tried the rest, call the best’ firmly commits each employee to do their best every day.”

The company offers all types of services from carpet, tile, and upholstery cleaning to repairs and installations of a variety of floor coverings, in addition to air duct and dryer vent cleaning.

Tom comes from 25 years of experience in cleaning, installation, and restoration services. He is certified by the IICRC, NADCA, CVI, and CCR and is backed by a staff that is both certified and knowledgeable about their products and services.

C.F.T. has been serving the Fox Valley area for 23 years out of St. Charles. In June 2009, Tom moved the company to Elburn to an expanded showroom with a greater selection. We carry top name brands such as Shaw, Mohawk, and Coronet.

We offer personalized service that others do not and an informative website for shopping at home. “Plus, during the life of the floor covering, customers can count on us to clean, maintain, and restore our products to prolong their useful life and maintain a healthy environment,” Tom said.

“We invite everyone to stop by and tour our new showroom, inspect our facility, and meet our wonderful customer service specialists and technicians. Bring your area rug with you and mention this article to receive a sizable discount on area rug cleaning.”

Two contemporary Sunday morning worship services are held at 9:15 and 10:45 a.m., with children’s programming available during both services for children birth through fifth grade. High Voltage, a program for high school students, is held at 9:15 a.m., and Live Wire, a program for middle school students, is held at 10:45 a.m.

Small groups is an active part of life at FVCC. This happens when groups of eight to 12 individuals meet regularly in homes for fellowship, encouragement and Bible study. Different types of groups are offered such as men’s, women’s, couples, young adults, empty nesters, etc. Some groups meet weekly while others meet every other week. Groups choose a study topic they feel will best meet the needs of those participating and allow for the development of spiritual growth and connection.

Celebrate Recovery is a unique ministry at Fox Valley Christian Church. The vision and mission of Celebrate Recovery is to provide a recovery environment and process that is Christ-centered and Biblically based where people can work through a wide variety of life-issues and life-stresses. No matter what hurt, habit or hang-up one may have, help and healing can be received through God’s love and grace. Celebrate Recovery meets at FVCC on Saturdays at 6:30 p.m. and is open to anyone.

The vision of Fox Valley Christian Church is to be “a people of love on a mission of love.” This is a reflection of the Bible’s teaching in which Jesus speaks of the importance of loving God and loving people. As those who have been impacted by God’s love and called into his family of love, our purpose is to express and share that love with others.

When Jesus first formed His church, he intended it to be the vehicle through which God would answer the prayer “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.”

That kingdom would first be established in the hearts of His people and then spread throughout the society. The result would be that we would have a foretaste of heaven now and full assurance of it later.

Jesus wanted those who heard Him to understand that these benefits are at least in part available now. We have the option of experiencing those benefits the day we begin to follow him. The New Testament showed average believers engaged in healing the sick, overturning destructive authorities, receiving guidance from God and finding themselves provided for even when the world around them was falling apart. It wasn’t just for Jesus and a few select saints.

And it wasn’t supposed to be an extraordinary way to live. It would be the normal way people experience the power of God in their lives. Jesus said, “I tell you the truth, anyone who has faith in Me will do the things I have been doing, and greater things will he do because I go to the Father. And I will do anything you ask in my name, so that the Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask anything in my name and I will do it” (John 14:12-14).

“The Kingdom Christ was talking about would one day end all disease, all tears, all pain, all mourning, and even death itself.”

In deference to our friends at another church in town, we have altered our new name to Elburn Hill Church. It’s where the sledding hill is. Though we are a small church, we are committed to creating a community that experiences God’s power by praying together, sharing God’s goodness and abundance with each other, and becoming a force for justice and peace in our city and county.

God has blessed us with several instances of dramatic answer to prayer that has astonished even those who have yet to believe. We have discovered that God will use any willing person to be his vehicle of wisdom and peace, that good families are within reach of anyone, that learning to love God results in satisfying marriages, intimate friendships, joyful discovery and successful, productive work.

If this interests you, come and see if this is a journey that makes sense to you. At Elburn Hill Church, our aim is to fully participate in the promises and power of God.

60 years of prayer
Elburn Hill Church is the product of 60 years of work and planning and prayer. In 1950, four protestant sisters of the Fellowship Deaconry bought the then-abandoned Stuart Mansion for $50,000, a tidy sum in those days.

Their desire was to provide spiritual services and guidance for immigrant families. They conducted youth camps during the summer, church retreats during the school year, and convalescent care in the mansion. They were also involved in tract evangelism throughout the Chicagoland area.

In order to pay for the property, the sisters went without heat for the first few years and donated nearly all of the tiny stipend they received to the ministry.

In 1985, the last of the sisters, Sr. Ruth along with several people from her church, began praying that God would plant a new church onto the Deaconry Property. In 1989, Eide Schwing came from Germany to study church planting and plant a church in Elburn. The church became a reality in October of 1990 out of a bible study. It was named Evangelical Fellowship Church.

In 1994, Eide returned to Germany, and Gary Augustine took over as Senior Pastor. For 15 years, the church has been shaped through an every increasing commitment to prayer.

With Elburn Hill Church as our new name, an even greater emphasis in prayer has resulted in beginning to see God’s power displayed in amazing ways in Elburn.

For Tom Lexvold and his team at Carpet & Fabric Technicians (C.F.T. Inc) in Elburn, you go about business even in the midst of rising water.

“In September 2008, when we had a lot of rain, for the first time ever we had our own flood,” Tom recalls. “We had 18 inches of water going through our office and warehouse like a river.” With computers on crates, no carpet on the floor, and files on top of cabinets, Tom said things were a little crazy.

“Then the hundreds of water damage calls came in and our office water damage was put on hold until all of the customers were taken care of,” he said.

That is what you do when you strive to be the best in your industry.

“I believe ‘the best’ is not just a slogan, but a way of doing business,” Tom said.

“Therefore, our slogan ‘when you’ve tried the rest, call the best’ firmly commits each employee to do their best every day.”

The company offers all types of services from carpet, tile, and upholstery cleaning to repairs and installations of a variety of floor coverings, in addition to air duct and dryer vent cleaning.

Tom comes from 25 years of experience in cleaning, installation, and restoration services. He is certified by the IICRC, NADCA, CVI, and CCR and is backed by a staff that is both certified and knowledgeable about their products and services.

C.F.T. has been serving the Fox Valley area for 23 years out of St. Charles. In June 2009, Tom moved the company to Elburn to an expanded showroom with a greater selection. We carry top name brands such as Shaw, Mohawk, and Coronet.

We offer personalized service that others do not and an informative website for shopping at home. “Plus, during the life of the floor covering, customers can count on us to clean, maintain, and restore our products to prolong their useful life and maintain a healthy environment,” Tom said.

“We invite everyone to stop by and tour our new showroom, inspect our facility, and meet our wonderful customer service specialists and technicians. Bring your area rug with you and mention this article to receive a sizable discount on area rug cleaning.”

In fact, with 154 combined years of service and more than 80 years of combined service in the sales department, it’s a lesson that has been proven time and time again.

“The secret to success for Bob Jass Chevrolet is that we have always put the customer first,” Bob said. “We are a family owned and operated dealership with longstanding ties to the community. At Bob Jass Chevrolet, we pride ourselves on being gentle in our approach to sales and assertive in our approach to problems. We don’t want to just sell you a vehicle. We would like to have your continued business.”

“We often hear from people that their experiences here are different from other dealerships,” Jass said. “The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed. We encourage customers to stop by and let us know how they and their family members are doing. We want to keep in touch with our customers. It’s that friendly touch that makes Bob Jass Chevrolet truly like no other.”

It is that combination of experience and focus on clients and their community that puts Bob Jass Chevrolet in a uniquely confident position in an industry in the midst of transition.

“We are excited about the changing landscape of the auto industry,” Jass said. “We have been working closely with GM Corporate in promoting what’s new for 2010 as well as the Chevrolet Volt—GM’s first all-electric car—and the highly anticipated Camaro convertible.”

Bob Jass Chevrolet offers new, dependable Chevrolet vehicles sold at the most industry competitive prices. It also offers all makes and models of used cars, and sells only the best that the used car market has to offer.

“Our philosophy is that customer satisfaction is our number-one priority,” Jass said.

“Whether you are purchasing a new or used vehicle, or are bringing in a vehicle for service, we are committed to making your experience here one of satisfaction and confidence in our employees and the services they provide.”

The Right Weigh is an integrated lifestyle program that is designed to give participants the guidance and encouragement they need by providing accountability every step of the way through a life coach, registered dietitian and a degreed and certified personal trainer.

Why join The Right Weigh?
Diet, exercise and lifestyle are the foundation of a complete and well-rounded program and the basis to develop and reinforce healthy behaviors for a lifetime. This program is for people with moderate to significant weight loss needs or other health conditions that can be positively affected by a healthy lifestyle. We want to show you The Right Weigh to achieve your goals:
• Exercise and nutrition go hand-in-hand
• A support system is important in reaching your goals
• Being fit doesn’t mean giving up your favorite foods
• You deserve to be the best you that you can be

Program components
Components of the program include a 12-week membership to the Delnor Health & Wellness Center and weekly one-on-one meetings with a degreed and certified personal trainer who will be the point person in the program. Additionally, there will be four hours of individual time with a registered dietitian and four hours with a trained life coach.

Working together, you will receive the support and empowerment needed to be successful in making positive lifestyle changes; this includes strategies for monitoring behaviors and for making conscious choices that are aligned with your specific goals. Making these small but significant changes will help you look at food and exercise differently while discovering solutions to the various stressors/triggers in your life.

Healthy lifestyle changes are encouraged through components of pre/post health assessments, healthy eating/nutritional support, weekly journaling, life coaching and physical activity. The program approaches weight loss as not just dieting; it also encompasses the aspects of physical and emotional wellness. The three members of the team will regularly discuss progress, determine if adjustments need to be made and coordinate with each participant. Choose to live a healthier life—The Right Weigh.

He immigrated to the United States at the age of 5 and was raised in Skokie, Ill. He then went on to receive his bachelor’s degree in biology from the Illinois Institute of Technology, before completing his medical training in New York City. He returned to Chicago to be closer to his family, and worked as a hospitalist.

That desire, combined with discussions with other doctors, led him to establish a new practice in Sugar Grove.

“I was advised by other physicians at Mercy Provena of the shortage of physicians in the area of Sugar Grove,” Dr. Patel said, and that is what led him to establish his new practice at 140 S. Municipal Drive, Suite A, in Sugar Grove on Sept. 26.

He brings a high level of experience and knowledge to the Sugar Grove community, and he said his goal is to make sure that he translates that expertise to patients in terms they will understand.

“I like to explain things so people understand what we’re talking about—I’ll even draw it out if I have to,” Dr. Patel said. “I will take the scientific knowledge and put it in a form that people can grasp. What I’ve found is that if people have even a basic grasp of the information and the concepts, they feel empowered, and that has a tendency to produce better outcomes.”

Not only does Dr. Patel focus on serving his patients from both a medical and informational standpoint, he also wants to focus on accommodating his patients’ needs from a scheduling standpoint as well.

That is why Sugar Grove Medical Associates offers evening and weekend hours, to help ensure that even those with inflexible or demanding work schedules will have accessibility to his patient-focused practice. In addition, Dr. Patel said he will adjust his practice’s hours on an as-needed basis to help accommodate his patients’ needs.

“When your first vote is to impeach the governor, you know it’s going to be a pivotal year for Illinois.”

How very true!

When 50th District State Representative Kay Hatcher was elected this year to represent much of the Fox Valley, she brought with her a solid background in fiscal management tempered with business, civic and political leadership experience. That experience has served her and her constituents well.

She also serves on the bi-partisan Taskforce on Government Reform and Spending Reductions.

“It won’t happen overnight, but we are going to turn this state around,” added Hatcher.

Hatcher returned from her first Spring Session to receive the Legislator of the Year award from the Metro West Council of Government. She received the award for her collaborative approach to legislative problem solving.

“Illinois has outspent its revenues for years, and it will take everyone working together to solve those problems,” she concluded. “If we implement a pro-business, low-tax attitude, the ripple effect will make our entire economic and social structure healthier.”

“The issues in Springfield are so complex. My years of experience as a school board member gave me a unique insight into education issues.

Years as a county board member, zoning and economic development chairman prepared me for job, growth and transportation issues. Years as Forest Preserve President taught me how fragile our water supply and environment have become.

Decades of Chamber of Commerce and non-profit leadership helped me find important balance.
I’m grateful that all those varied experiences help me better represent our valley.”

And I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve.

The Sugar Grove Chamber of Commerce and Industry is a not-for-profit organization that provides a forum to support businesses by fostering relationships between businesses, between businesses and the community, and by creating opportunities through which its members can add value to the community.

“Our focus has always been to enhance the Sugar Grove community by helping build a strong business community,” Chamber Executive Director Shari Baum said. “We offer our members opportunities to grow with our community, as well as the opportunity to help our community grow.”

The chamber focuses on building the relationships among the various types of community members—residents, businesses and government officials.

“Our success of working together improves the quality of life in our community,” Shari said. “The chamber was instrumental in continuing the Corn Boil as a successful community event; we have issued thousands of dollars in scholarships to deserving local students; we have sponsored the Sugar Grove Farmers Market since its inception; we have sponsored “Meet the Candidates” night each local election year; and each year, we select and recognize the Sugar Grove Citizen of the Year. We also serve the community by overseeing publication and distribution of the Sugar Grove Community Guide and the Sugar Grove Map.”

The chamber also presents awards to those businesses that represent the Sugar Grove community well. Each month, chamber membership luncheons feature informative speakers and networking opportunities. It offers Business After-Hours events, educational seminars, leads groups and fundraising events that provide members with sponsorship and advertising opportunities.

In addition to those the activities the chamber has taken on for years, the organization has begun to add additional incentives for members. The chamber recently revamped its website, www.sugargrovchamber.org, providing members with a strong web presence, as well as a resource for business information, education and advertising opportunities. Weekly e-mail blasts offer another advertising opportunity while keeping members informed about important events, community and business issues. The most recent addition is a regularly published newsletter, which is distributed to each member, as well as providing publicly viewable copies to the Sugar Grove Public Library, the village of Sugar Grove offices, and other community businesses. Shari said the chamber has plans to continue to evolve, offering more services and opportunities for its members.

“We look forward to continuing to serve our members and our community in new and meaningful ways in the coming year,” she said.

That is even more important now, in the face of a difficult economic situation for everyone.

“Using chamber members’ products and services is important, especially in these difficult economic times,” Shari said. “Spending locally generates tax dollars that stay in the community to the benefit of the residents.”

Shari went on to say that despite the difficult economic backdrop, they are still seeing new businesses opening in the area, and when new businesses open, the chamber immediately begins working to help them raise awareness in the community.

“We welcome them with a ribbon cutting ceremony to bring attention to their presence,” Shari said. “The chamber gives them the ability to quickly establish new relationships in the existing business community through various networking events, sponsorship and committee opportunities, and our online business directory and referral system.”

The Sugar Grove Chamber of Commerce and Industry was founded in 1992. It has grown to include more than 150 member businesses from Sugar Grove and the surrounding areas.

“We have a wide variety of members, from single-employee small businesses to large corporations and non-profits,” Shari said.

Sedentary lifestyles have also contributed to our poor state of health in this country. Statistics have proven what our dietary and lifestyle habits have done to our health.

You have heard the radio commercials, you’ve seen the television ads, you’ve seen coupons in the newspapers, but what is Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating really all about?

SSHE believes that a proper diet, along with portion control, is the only safe way to lose weight. No fads, no gimmicks, just (time-proven) low-fat, low-cholesterol, sodium-restricted foods providing proper nutrition. Compare Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating to the guidelines set by the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society, and you will see why the program is recommended by health and nutrition experts.

Losing weight has a very basic premise. If you burn more calories than you consume, you will lose weight. Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating provides a 1,200-calorie or a 2,000-calorie plan: fresh meals, packed with nutrition that will provide more than just weight loss—but good health. SSHE believes weight loss should not compromise your health—as many “popular” plans do. While SSHE is known mostly for weight loss, its client base is rapidly increasing with customers striving to improve their physical well-being.

Such statements can be substantiated by the thousands of client testimonials SSHE has received over the years.

A Yorkville resident, James M., is proud of his success in improving his overall health.

“Before starting Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating, I had quadruple-bypass surgery, high blood pressure (240/90), Type II diabetes and blood sugars consistently over 300, a cholesterol level of well over 200 and weighed 270 pounds. SSHE assisted in helping me lose 70 pounds,” he said. “I am no longer taking medication for diabetes (my blood sugars are now well within normal range), my cholesterol is now 118 and my blood pressure is normal. I attribute this to exercising three times a week and eating right with Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating plan.)

“My SSHE distributor, Eileen Spevak, RN, a great resource with her medical background in nursing, advised me to work closely with my physician as these wonderful changes in my health and well-being took place.”

Eileen Spevak, RN, chose to open a business in the area after she successfully lost 80 pounds with SSHE.

“I lost 80 pounds with Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating 12 years ago and have managed to keep all of this weight off,” said Spevak.

Twelve years later, Spevak is proud to announce the opening of her fourth store in Sugar Grove.

During her weight loss crusade, she was a customer who fell in love with the product that finally held the key to her success. As a nurse in an intensive care unit, she often helped patients recover immediately following an open heart surgery. She saw the need to encourage them to address their health issues from the beginning—encourageing prevention of a disease as opposed to treating it with pills and surgeries once the damage had been done.

Spevak knows that prevention is the key and has personally witnessed many success stories.

“I have literally had customers walk into my office and give me a big hug—to say ‘thank you,’” she said.

“Particularly memorable was a woman who lived with chronic pain, causing much physical debilitation,” Spevak recalled. “Prior to starting our program, she was unable to physically walk into our office, yet after four months, she was able to walk, on her own, through our front door. I remember saying to her after she hugged and thanked me, ‘Do not thank me, thank Seattle!’ Once a nurse—always a nurse.”

When asked if she misses her nursing profession, Spevak responded “Yes, of course—I really miss helping my patients. I now receive so much pleasure in seeing my customers improve their health, that my nursing passion is satisfied in a pro-active manner. Seeing patients improve their health, sometimes eliminating the need for pills and surgery, is just as satisfying—it’s just in a different arena.”

Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating may either be picked up or delivered to your home bi-weekly. Eileen Spevak now has four area locations: Sugar Grove, Oswego, Aurora and Plainfield.

“My children were almost out of school, and I needed to find something to do with my time,” Patricia said. “For 25 years—I found it. I opened a business in Bloomingdale, Ill., and met many nice stitchers, and the business has grown from there.”

Her business sells supplies for needlework, including needlepoint, cross stitch, hardanger, punch needs, drawn thread and more.

She was drawn to the world of stitching and needlework through a lifelong appreciation for the art.

“I have always enjoyed stitching and wanted to share my experience and love for stitching with others,” Patricia said. “People who are stitchers are generally very giving people, happy, and fun people.”

The company has been in business for 25 years, and includes Patricia’s daughters, as well.

“My oldest daughter has been doing our framing for 25 years and my youngest daughter has worked with me for 25 years,” Patricia said.

Together, Patricia and her daughters are focused on spreading their love for the work to others, by offering them supplies, tips, techniques and friendship. That focus on the customers paid off when the family moved their business.

“First we moved the 150-year-old house we are in from one location to another,” Patricia recalled. “Then, moving the business—which I thought we could do in a weekend—took over a month to do, and our customers from far and wide followed us here to our new location. It is all very gratifying.”

She invites you to join the fun.

Because the parish is new, and the first new parish established in 20 years in the Rockford Diocese, the community within the community is still forming. The Rev. Robert W. Jones said it is exciting watching the group come together.

“This parish has a tremendous spirit. Our parishioners are excited and glad to be a part of this faith community,” the Rev. Jones said. “Everyone is willing to step up to help the parish and each other. Since our parishioners have all come from various parishes, everyone is new and forming their own community; all are welcome.”

Now that the groundwork is set and the church is beginning to offer services at Kaneland John Shields Elementary School, the next step—a capital campaign to raise funds for a church building, parish hall and offices—is set to begin.

The Rev. Jones said that the parish hopes to be well into the capital campaign within the year, and possibly even beginning construction on their permanent church building. Looking further into the future, he said the hope is that the parish will continue to grow, a permanent church will be constructed and the parish will expand on the variety of ministries offered to both parishioners and the community as a whole.

All of the hopes, plans and organizing are done with an eye and heart on the central mission of the parish, the Rev. Jones said.

“Our parish mission statement is ‘St. Katharine Drexel’s joyful spirit invites us to a deeper appreciation of Christ’s love for us and our need to respond as a welcoming and faithful Catholic community,’” he said.

Maybe it is the quality facilities and services Delnor Glen features on-site, such as the independent townhomes, assisted living, memory loss care and rehabilitation for its residents or those enjoying a short-term stay or receiving respite care.

Maybe it is the familiarity with the staff; 10 of them have worked at Delnor Glen for 10 years or more, and half of them have been at the facility for five years or more.

If you ask Delnor Glen’s public relations director Catherine Duer, she says it is all of these things, and more.

“It is our excellence in quality of care for our residents,” she said. “The sense of belonging by the residents. There is always a familiar face to talk to whether they are having a bad day and may need a hug or someone to celebrate good news or a happy event.”

The staff not only provides the care and dedication required to provide excellent service, but they have the certifications to back it up in an official capacity, as well. Every nurse in the facility is certified in assisted living, one of the factors that helped Delnor Glen receive the Seal Of Confidence from Life Services Network, giving them 5 stars in quality of care from their families.

The staff offers professional medical services around the clock and provides wellness checks, in addition to helping with medication reminders, bathing, housekeeping and a variety of activities.

The residents enjoy the comfort of beautiful apartments, with private bathrooms and an emergency response system, three home-cooked meals served in a beautiful dining room, as well as a membership to the Delnor Health and Wellness Center.

The facility offers a dedicated site for outpatient rehabilitation, occupational, physical and speech therapy provided by Delnor rehabilitation therapists. It also offers short-term stays for those recovering from a hospitalization, or for family members who just need a break.

It’s clear that there isn’t just one thing that stands out about Delnor Glen; it is all of the various factors that make a place a home.

In 1946, Jerry and Marge Johnson began repairing truck tarps and seats in an attic room in their home in DeKalb, Ill.

Carrying truck tarps upstairs or hoisting seats through a window became counter-productive, and they relocated their business to its present location in Cortland. Purchasing an old Model A garage in 1952, they set up shop and their business began to grow.

Sons Jerry “Jug” and Fred have worked in the business since early childhood, and daughter Cherry joined the business in 1983.

Today the business has expanded to over 5,000 square feet of work area in four separate buildings.

A complete auto trim shop offering custom seat fitting and complete interior restorations are housed in one of the buildings.

The second building houses the tarp shop with two tables approximately 40 feet long and 10 feet wide for the construction or repair of roll-over tarps for semi trucks, or repairing any industrial flexible materials.

Building three takes on the clean canvas work, affording a table long enough to sew up new custom boat covers or an awning for a deck or store front. All work is custom made for each job and done on a per-customer request.

The fourth building has the capacity to hold a complete semi truck & trailer for indoor removal & replacement of tarps. This building also contains the welding shop where all awning frames are constructed.

With so much experience and a facility able to handle the variety of requests, the company has the know-how and the tools to ensure their customers are more than satisfied.

“Our name goes on everything that leaves here,” Jerry said. “If we aren’t proud of the product/workmanship, it won’t make our customer happy.”

Johnson Seat & Canvas has proudly served the greater northern Illinois region for more than 50 years. Customer satisfaction is the number-one priority, with word of mouth and repeat customers being their best forms of advertising.

“Our customer comes first,” Jerry said. “If you aren’t happy, please tell us so we can work to make your purchase worth the cost of your product.”

In addition to being a Certified Personal Trainer, I am also a CPA, and my personal training website is www.thefitcpa.com.

I have been in the finance industry for eight years, but my passion resides in helping others find balance in their lives.

For most of my life, I have struggled with my weight. I had such an obsession with food that it stuffed the emotions of turmoil in my mind and buried it.

The trouble is, my outward appearance was a reflection of my inward struggles. My before and after pictures can attest to that fact. Eighteen years ago I was 257 pounds and miserable. Today, I am lean, healthy and happy. Because I understand what it feels like to be morbidly obese, and then go on a continuum of yo-yo dieting for 15 years, I am passionate about helping others achieve a fit and healthy lifestyle.

I never really knew what to eat, when to eat, how to workout. I knew some things, but I didn’t know how to put it together to reach my goals. I thought the answer was to just work out hard, but I was doing that for eight years and getting fatter.

Why? Because I didn’t understand the significant role that nutrition played in this. I was eating junk. This is why balance is the key to success.

It’s not about nutrition, fitness, or weight loss. It’s these things combined that create balance that allows you to move forward toward your goals. It is a lifestyle change, not a quick fix, to fit into those size 8 jeans. It is a transformation that will last a lifetime, not a moment in time.

I continue to move forward with my fitness goals as well as helping you achieve your own. InnerCore, Inc. will help you reach your goals. Contact me at (630) 202-3542, and we will get started on your journey today.

Believe …

It is designed to take full advantage of the child’s desire to learn and her unique ability to develop her own capabilities. The child needs adults to expose him to the possibilities of his life, but the child must determine his response to those possibilities.

Fox Valley Montessori alumni—students graduated from the sixth grade, as well as those who exit FVMS before the elementary years—have had great success in their new environments: public, parochial and home schools. The solid base received in their early years has aptly prepared them as self-starters and contributors to the community at large.

Research has shown that the best predictor of future success is a positive sense of self-esteem. Montessori programs, based on self-directed, non-competitive activities, help children develop strong self-images and the confidence to face challenges in the 21st century.

Research also indicates that a Montessori education fosters social and academic skills that are equal or superior to those fostered by a pool of other types of schools.

Fox Valley Montessori was founded in 1969 and has been providing a Montessori education for Fox Valley area families for over 40 years. It provides programs for children from 18 months to 12 years of age (6th grade). By providing multi-aged classrooms, certified Montessori teachers and a rigorous academic curriculum, Fox Valley Montessori has a proven track record for providing quality education.

Students are drawn not only from Aurora, but other communities such as Sugar Grove, Elburn, North Aurora, Geneva, Batavia, St. Charles, Oswego, and Naperville. Fox Valley Montessori is affiliated with the American Montessori Society and is recognized as a non-public school by the Illinois State Board of Education.