LNT_Bureau & Putnam County Progress_102225

Progress 2025 Bureau County/Putnam County

A closer look at the people, places and businesses at the heart of Bureau and Putnam Counties

Princeton Auto Group

Princeton Auto Group is proud to serve the Illinois Valley! We’ve expanded our inventory to give you a wider selection while also creating local jobs to better serve our amazing customers. Visitors love relaxing in our modern customer lounge—complete with comfy high-tech seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, three big-screen TVs, and a fresh cup of Starbucks coffee. With three convenient Princeton locations, we’re committed to our community and proud to be locally owned. Our mission is simple: to deliver

a great experience in every department— Sales, Service, and Parts. We carry hundreds of vehicles to fit every need, whether it’s a first car for a teen, an upgrade for your current ride, a heavyduty truck, or a dependable family vehicle.

Financing? We’re experts in all credit situations—from no credit to great credit, and everything in between. We even offer free delivery of your vehicle straight to your driveway!

Need routine maintenance? You’ll love

our Quick Lube Service Drive—just pull in, and our team will take care of your oil change and basic fluids on the spot, with no appointment needed. And yes, we service all makes and models!

Our Factory Certified Technicians are ready to handle any repair, and our customers know they’ll always find the best selection, competitive pricing, and exceptional care right here at Princeton Auto Group—your hometown dealership for Chevrolet, GMC, Hummer, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Ford!

Progress 2025 Bureau County/Putnam County

PHOTO BY SCOTT ANDERSON

Second Street La Salle, Illinois 61301 (815) 223-3200 (800) 892-6452 shawlocal.com

General Manager/ Advertising Director Jeanette Smith jmsmith@shawmedia.com

Account Executives

Jared Bell

Ashley Oliver

Writer Melissa Riske

Designer Liz Klein

AAA Tree Service

Look no further than the skilled and insured arborists at AAA Tree Service for your tree removal needs. Our team has the experience and tools required to remove the diseased trees safely from your property. Stump removal, stumps not only affects the appearance of your property, but it also poses a threat to the safety of those who are around. Call us for professional stump grinding or removal services. You’ll be glad to know that we’re licensed and insured for your safety.

Increase the aesthetic appeal of your property by keeping your trees in shape. Contact our knowledgeable professionals today! We provide trimming, pruning, and various other services to keep the trees looking beautiful at all times. We also provide snow removal and salting during the cold winter months. Land clearing services and firewood delivery available. Don’t forget to ask for a 5% senior DISCOUNT if you’re eligible for it. Feel free to contact us at 815-883-4551 for your FREE ESTIMATE today!

Norberg Memorial Home

For over 120 years, families have entrusted Norberg Memorial Home & Monuments to honor their loved ones. The business origins can be traced back to the 1900. Originated by E. A. Vaughan. The business would become Norberg Memorial Home when Arthur Norberg purchased the business in 1922. In 1955 Vaughan hired Bodie Smallwood, a veteran who had returned from the Korean War. Bodie graduated from Worsham College of Mortuary Science and went on to become a business partner and eventually sole owner in 2003. Bodie’s son JD chose to attend mortuary school, completing clinical work at the Cook County Morgue in Chicago during the horrible heatwave of July 1995 when more than 700 died. JD later purchased the business shortly before the passing of Bodie in 2008. Today JD continues the traditions of Norberg with his wife, Janice and Operations Manager Joey Rainford. Norberg’s has been a proud supporter of Princeton and the surrounding community throughout its history and continues to do so. Winning the Reader’s Choice Award for Most Respected Funeral Home in Bureau County for several years, Norberg’s offers full funeral services, prearrangements, memorial services, cremations, jewelry, urns, monuments and headstones as well as free Notary Services and a sit and talk on the front porch if that’s what you are in need of.

First State Bank

First State Bank has been providing high-quality financial products and services since 1940. We offer an entire suite of business and personal banking options including our popular high-interest FSBPremier checking account. Our technology integration allows for robust online banking and convenient online account opening options. With a mix of cutting-edge banking products and employing local professionals who take the time to get to know each customer, you will have a winning combination for all your financial needs. Come see your Friends at 411 W. Main St. in McNabb or 1693 N. Main St. in Princeton, or visit us at firststatebank.biz.

Nyman Insurance

At Nyman Insurance, we have been helping seniors navigate the maze of Medicare, insurance, rate increases and coverage changes for the last 37 years.

We are a family-owned and operated business. We care for our clients as if they are our family. We work directly for our clients and not the companies we carry. Our job is to make sure that our clients always receive the best coverage for the best rates. We never want somebody to pay too much. If you are looking for a company who has the experience and expertise to offer that personal touch, our agents are here to take care of your Medicare needs.

Choose Nyman Insurance, “the Medicare Experts.” We always offer free advice and quotes including prescription drug coverage quotes. We’re located at 15 W. Warren St. Ste 3., Princeton. To speak with one of our agents, please call (815) 879-2721.

Greenfield Retirement Home

We are a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing older adults a family atmosphere where they receive loving, personalized care to maximize their quality of life and independence.

Greenfield is owned and operated by the Adeline E. Prouty Trust who has been providing services at 508 Park Ave. East in Princeton Illinois since 1911.

Our licensed sheltered care living option lets you enjoy your independence and offers help when you need it. Our team of professionals helps with activities of daily living, managing medications, social and recreational activities, personalized care and home cooked meals. Enjoy our family atmosphere while still having the comfort of your own private room.

The apartments at Greenfield offer an independent lifestyle without the responsibilities of maintenance and yard work. You have the choice of a variety of services and amenities to enrich your life. If you want to make the most of your retirement, Greenfield apartments have what you need. Spend your time doing the things you love and leave the rest to us.

Sullivan’s Foods

Sullivan’s Foods in Princeton is a hometown grocery store to fit all your needs! A family-owned company since 1967, Sullivan’s offers the best in fresh bakery, deli, produce and meat. Ask about free meat slicing from our in-house butcher. Our caterers can service any size gathering – from your small business meeting to your big wedding day! Our managers are in store daily to help you with any question. We have a great gaming section available in the store with free snacks and adult beverages available! Online groceries to go is now available by computer or mobile app. Stop by our gas station for some of the cheapest fuel prices in town. Open daily 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. at 125 E. Backbone Rd. in Princeton. Phone: (815) 879-7351, Gas Station: (815) 875-1494

Hartman Statewide Buildings dedicated to integrity and dependability

With years of happy customers in their past, Ryan Hartman and the team at Hartman Statewide Buildings are experts at building structures that exceed expectations. Ryan knows that no construction company lasts long without being dedicated to integrity and dependabil -

ity, and every structure his team touches is built to make the customer proud. And, from HVAC to electrical, Hartman Statewide Buildings has cultivated strong relationships with area experts who bring the same rocksolid dependability and work ethic to every project. When

you build on integrity, you build to last. Ryan knows the business from the bottom up because he started his career working on a crew, but quickly moved up to crew leader and kept on climbing. With his deep understanding of every aspect of WICK’s product line, and his rela -

tionships with experienced, quality subcontractors, Ryan and his crew always deliver excellent service with the well-deserved reputation of being trustworthy, hardworking and dependable. Call today - 815.830.1975 or check out the website at hartmanstatewide.com

BUILDING IN PRINCETON AND THE SURROUNDING AREA

for over 25 years. They get the job done right, every time. Just ask any

Compeer Financial

Compeer Financial is a member-owned, Farm Credit cooperative serving and supporting agriculture and rural communities. We provide loans, leases, risk management and other financial services throughout 144 counties in Illinois, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Based in the upper Midwest, Compeer Financial exists to champion the hopes and dreams of rural America. With nearly 1,400 dedicated team members serving approximately 75,000 member-owners, we offer specialized expertise and personalized service regardless of the size of the farm, the type of crop grown or the livestock raised. Our services are provided with convenience in mind, through visits to fields, barns and homes, or by maximizing technology to make the most of every hour in every day. Compeer Financial regularly collaborates with others who are also dedicated to agriculture and rural America. Our in-house specialists participate in conversations that extend beyond our service area, providing formal and informal insight on topics pertinent to all industries, including dairy, swine, grain and renewable energy. With $33 billion in total assets, Compeer Financial is one of the largest cooperatives in the Farm Credit System. This nationwide network of lending institutions supports agriculture and rural communities with reliable, consistent credit and financial services.

Kettman Heating and Plumbing

Furnace or Air Conditioner out at night? Who do you call? Come home from vacation at 11:30 p.m. on a Sunday to a burst pipe? Who can help? The man in the orange and white van! Kettman Heating and Plumbing trucks are stocked and ready to go at any time of the day or night. We service all brands, and offer a full line of York products and Honeywell generators. We offer residential & commercial plumbing services, kitchen & bath remodels, and many other plumbing repairs, including pool heaters. We also service commercial refrigeration and restaurant equipment service and sales. For more information, call Kettman at (815) 339-6124 or visit the website at www.kettmanheating.com.

Putnam County Community Center

Each year from October 15-December 7, Medicare beneficiaries should review available Part D plans to ensure they have the best plan for their needs. Through SHIP (Senior Health Insurance Program) funding, the PCCC has Medicare counselors who can provide unbiased help and enrollment assistance. In addition to Part D plans, counselors can help you explore other parts of Medicare such as Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs to help with the cost of Medicare. Medicare assistance is available Monday through Friday by appointment only; please call 1 (815) 339-2711 or 1 (800) 757-4579 to schedule.

Grasser’s Plumbing and Heating

Grassers Plumbing & Heating is a reliable air conditioning, heating, plumbing company located in McNabb IL. Serving the Illinois Valley for over 70 yrs, our family owned and operated company is friendly, reliable, and affordable to bring your home or business total comfort.

With free estimates, affordable prices, and courteous service, Grasser’s is the place to shop when you need plumbing fixtures, fireplaces, heating and air conditioner systems, home appliances and much more.

Grassers educated staff and technicians are available 24 hours a day and ready to serve you!

PUTNAM COUNTY COMMUNITY CENTER

128 First St., P.O. Box 208 Standard, IL 81383 (815) 339-2711 or (800) 757--4579 pcaservtces.org

•Information & Assistance Linking People to Benefit & Services

• Outreach Home Visits

• Congregate Meals Tues. & Thurs. ($8 Suggested Donation for those 60+)

• Certified SHIP Site (Medicare Help)

• ActlvlUes & Programs Tues. & Thurs.

• Lending Closet (Free Use of Medical Equipment)

• Famlly Caregiver Resources

• Alzheimer Disease & Related Disorder Services

• EngAGED Program (Reduces social isolation and loneliness among older adults)

BC Health Department

The mission of the Bureau, Putnam and Marshall County Health Departments is to prevent disease and promote and protect health through education, collaboration and public service. We offer low cost lab draws and child and adult immunizations, WIC services, and family services for our area residents. Our vision is to be a collaborative agent for change in health problems that our community faces and to become a health/wellness provider and resource for all in our community. Our offices are located at 526 Bureau Valley Parkway, Princeton, 220 E. High St. Hennepin, and 319 6th St. Lacon. Check out our website - www.bpmhd.org

Valley Coin Jewelry Pawn

If you are in need of a quick, short-term cash advance, visit Valley Coin Jewelry Pawn in Spring Valley. We are a collateral-based pawn shop. Just bring in an item of value and receive cash for your item within minutes. No credit checks. No dipping into your banking accounts and no hassle. We are a non-recourse lender. Your collateral (pawn) becomes security for your cash advance.

To redeem your pawn, just come back in with the amount given to you plus a modest finance charge. Or you can extend the loan another 30 days by just paying the minimum finance charge.

You can also shop our store for a variety of things such as jewelry, coins, tools, musical equipment and the UNUSUAL

For more information, visit valley-coin-jewelry-pawn.com, follow us on Facebook and Instagram or stop in at our new location- 221 West St. Paul St., downtown Spring Valley.

Pictured are (left to right) Jonah, Abby, Janet, Chris, Noah, Nathan, Luke, Brock

Cody Burroughs - State Farm

Cody Burroughs is your local State Farm agent with locations in Spring Valley and La Salle. Cody has been helping clients in the Illinois Valley since 2012. Cody served as a sergeant in the United States Army and is a veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom. With a staff of eight to serve your needs, we are here to answer your questions. We provide auto, home, renters, fire, life and health insurance as well as investment planning services. Contact us at 815664-5302 or 815-223-1059 and see how we can help you. Pictured are (back row, left to right) Matt Staab, Cole Thompson, Jake From State Farm, Ian Trevier and Cody Burroughs; (front row, left to right) Jennie Laio, Lucie, Cassie Radtke, Alex Castelan, Laurie Urbanski and Ashley Burroughs.

Andy’s Karpet Kleaning

Back in 1995, Andy Kunkel started Andy’s Karpet Kleaning, building a trusted name in quality carpet, tile, and upholstery cleaning across the Illinois Valley.

In 2000, Andy’s son, Brad Kunkel, began working for him while in high school, gaining hands-on experience in the family trade. Following Andy’s retirement last year, Brad, with 24 years of expertise, took over as owner. He leads a dedicated team of cleaning technicians Ryan Manion, Mason Brannon, and Gage Harris, who maintain our commitment to exceptional service. For over 30 years, our familyowned business has served both residential and commercial clients, offering expert cleaning for carpet, area rugs, tile, upholstery, and even specialty items like boats, campers, and vehicles. Certified in Scotch Guard application, Andy’s Karpet Kleaning ensures fabrics stay stain-resistant and easy to maintain. With a passion for the craft, our team takes pride in transforming homes and businesses into fresh, revitalized spaces.

Proudly serving the entire Illinois Valley, Andy’s Karpet Kleaning continues to uphold its legacy of excellence.

Cioni Ford, Inc.

Al Cioni Ford proudly announces that they earned their 12th prestigious Ford President’s Award! Winning 5 in a row, out of thousands of Ford dealerships across the country, only a small percentage are selected for this highly coveted award each year. The Al Cioni Ford team is honored to represent the Ford Company as they continually strive for excellence each day while they treat their customers like family with a focus on customer satisfaction. For 2024, Al Cioni Ford has been recognized by its customers to have superior customer service in both sales and in service and earned the award for its 12th time. Owner, Al Cioni said, “This award means so much to our team because it means that our customers are satisfied with our service and sales departments. We are grateful to our hard-working team and to each and every customer.” Al Cioni Ford proudly took away a win The Best New Auto Dealer in the Illinois Valley for 2025!

Celebrating 70 Years — You Are Who We Are

Illinois Valley Credit Union (IVCU) has proudly served the area for 70 years. Founded in 1955 to serve the employees of Marquette Cement Co., IVCU has grown into a trusted partner for more than 4,000 members. Today, anyone who lives, works or worships in La Salle, Bureau, or Putnam Counties is welcome to join.

Membership begins with just a $1.00 share savings account, giving access to a wide range of financial services. IVCU offers savings accounts, club accounts, money markets and share certificates, along with convenient checking options, including a high-yield account with no monthly fees when qualifications are met.

Our lending philosophy is simple: find ways to make loans, not deny them. Members can rely on IVCU for auto, truck, boat and recreational vehicle loans, as well as mortgages, home equity loans, personal loans, and VISA credit cards - all with

competitive rates and flexible terms.

Modern banking is easy with mobile banking, remote check deposit, and eStatements. Additional services like wire transfers, prepaid debit cards, overdraft protection,

and notary assistance provide everyday convenience.

With branches in Princeton and Peru, IVCU blends the strength of a full-service financial institution with the warmth of a local credit union.

As we celebrate 70 years, we invite you to join our story. At Illinois Valley Credit Union, we’re more than bankingwe’re neighbors, partners, and advocates. IVCU… You are who we are!

Member NCUA

Sheet Wise Printing and Design

When it’s time to stand out from the crowd, Sheet Wise Printing and Design has the visual communication tools to make your brand stand out from the crowd. From enhancing an in-store experience or showcasing at a trade show, the team at Sheet Wise Printing and Design has the solutions that will get your business noticed.

Located in Spring Valley, Sheet Wise Printing and Design offers a large range of services. We create high quality custom signs for businesses throughout the Illinois Valley, handling every step from design to installation. Our sign services include electronic message boards, acrylic signs, and digital displays as well as signs that are wall and pole mounted to help customers find your location.

Our printing services include large or small jobs, with quick, professional printing and prices that are competitive. We strive to provide the best in customer service. We work with a

range of clients, from medical facilities to schools, community groups and businesses. We have the knowledge and ability to ensure quality printing for brochures, business cards, direct mail and business forms and envelopes. We can also provide printing services for door hangers, letterheads and raffle tickets, newsletters and event programs.

We have the tools to provide high quality vinyl printing services with our flat bed and roll vinyl printing. Our custom vinyl printing services include banners, decals, event posters, magnets, window graphics, wall murals for indoors and outdoors, wraps and yard signs.

And our team can assist with visual communications to help your business attract clients at your next trade show or community event. We offer a number of products including event tents, table covers, back drops and display stands, display counters, hanging displays, light boxes and trade show displays.

Grant-Johnson Funeral Homes

Grant-Johnson Funeral Homes has provided funeral, cremation and cemetery services to families in rural Illinois for several years. When we meet with a family, our mission is to create a meaningful and affordable service for your loved one. We serve each family with dedication and compassion as we guide you through the process of planning a memorial or funeral service. Our values are founded on the belief that no detail is too small-the way he fixed his hair or the smell of her perfume-our attention to detail is unwavering. Together, we’ll design a service that honors your loved one.

City of Spring Valley

Welcome to Spring Valley, a wonderful place to live, work and shop. We have a lot to offer from great parks, local businesses and a variety of food and delicious dining choices. We are in close proximity to the Illinois River providing boating and fishing opportunities, Echo Bluff Nature Park offering year-round activities, a local 18-hole golf course and several parks for your outdoor pleasure. We invite you to experience our small-town community pride!

Our New Community Center is now available for citizens to rent for social events, such as birthday parties, showers, or other celebrations, as well as for clubs and organizations to hold meetings and gather for events.

Visit our website springvalleyil.gov for local events and activities throughout the year.

The Yepsen Agency

Comprehensive Insurance Services, The Yepsen Agency, located in Princeton, Illinois, was formed in 1998. We are partnered with many reputable insurance companies who offer insurance programs through the independent agency force. We are a “full lines” insurance agency offering insurance products to protect individuals with life, health, Medicare supplements, home and auto, recreational vehicles, collector vehicles, farms, and businesses throughout Illinois. Our agency was founded with the philosophy of being available to you when you need us, and with your specific insurance needs addressed professionally.

Dave Yepsen, Brent Yepsen, Charmaine Hansen, and Kayla Kunkel are all active licensed agents and ready to help you.

717 S. Main

Princeton, IL 61356

phone 815-875-6079

fax 815-915-8198

dave@yepseninsurance.net

C. hansen@yepseninsurance.net

Kayla@yepseninsurance.net

Brent@yepseninsurance.net

MIKE WITTIG FOR BUREAU COUNTY SHERIFF

Mike Wittig is a lifelong Princeton resident and 16-year law enforcement veteran. A U.S. Army veteran, he began his police career in 2003 and returned home in 2017 to serve with the Bureau County Sheriff’s Office. He has experience in patrol, investigations, and specialized SWAT units, and has been recognized with multiple commendations, including a Meritorious Service Medal and awards for DUI enforcement.

SHERIFF MIKE’S VISION FOR A SAFER BUREAU COUNTY:

COMMUNITY FIRST: PRIORITIZING SAFETY, ACCOUNTABILITY, AND TRUST THROUGH REFORM AND TRANSPARENCY.

MODERN POLICING: BUILDING STRONG PARTNERSHIPS WITH RESIDENTS, LEADERS, AND AGENCIES TO ADDRESS CRIME AT ITS ROOT.

YOUTH & ENGAGEMENT: EXPANDING MENTORSHIP PROGRAMS, NEIGHBORHOOD PATROLS, AND COMMUNITY EDUCATION.

OFFICER TRAINING: ENHANCING DEESCALATION AND CULTURAL

COMPETENCY TO BETTER SERVE OUR DIVER SE COMMUNITIES.

MENTAL HEALTH RESPONSE: PARTNERING WITH CRISIS TEAMS TO IMPROVE SUPPOIRT FOR CITIZENS IN NEED

SMART TECHNOLOGY: USING MOBILE REPORTING TOOLS AND DATA TO RESPOND FASTER AND TRACK CRIME TRENDS.

COMMUNITY VOICE: HOSTING TOWN HALLS AND OPEN FORUMS TO LISTEN, LEARN, AND ACT TOGETHER.

TRANSPARENT PROGRESS: SETTING CLEAR GOALS AND METRICS TO ENSURE ACCOUNTABILITY EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.

*Paid for by Wittig for Sheriff